11/05/2026
A Soldier’s Journey
Eleven weeks ago, my grandson Brian began his journey to become a soldier in the United States Army.
This past week, we attended Family Day and Graduation at Fort Jackson, South Carolina, and witnessed the remarkable transformation of a young man through growth, discipline, determination, hard work, and commitment.
But the experience went well beyond watching Brian graduate alongside more than a thousand other young men and women. We also witnessed 42 individuals take the oath to become United States citizens.
If you've never sat in the bleachers at a military graduation ceremony, it's difficult to describe the experience. Watching these young men and women proudly become American soldiers, while others take their first steps as American citizens, is something that truly renews your pride in this country.
Today, Brian is on his way to Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri, for the next chapter of his training.
The journey began eleven weeks ago, but in so many ways, it's only just beginning.