I was coming home from basic training at Ft. Leonardwood, MO. I was in my ACU uniform flying to Atlanta out of St. Louis. While waiting for my second flight for the night to Columbus, GA, a little boy roughly 10 years old comes up to me from behind, taps me on my arm, and holds his hand out to shake my hand in appreciation for my service. The biggest smile came across my face as I took a knee and shook his hand. I looked back as he walked back to his mother and gave her a smile. Within 8 months of joining the army, on the day I return home from basic training and AIT, on my fathers 50th birthday, and I already have been showed why I joined. I will never forget that day, that kid, or my reason.

Eric Brownlee
Seale, AL