Hey there, friend!

In a world where we are constantly bombarded with the negative news, the mere mention of a military homecoming can bring this girl to tears.

To me, military homecomings represent not only the sacrifices our soldiers make and mark their safe return back home, but I think those moments of re-connection shine a light on the sacrifices their families members make, as well. Weeks, months, maybe even years at a time pass by and families have to learn how to operate without a husband, wife, brother, sister, mother, father, or friend as that brave individual willingly sacrifices the comforts of home to fight for you and me.

I’ve never been a part of a military family, so I don’t know these feelings first hand, but in the past few weeks I’ve been privileged enough to be invited into the lives of three families with loved ones returning home.

What I can tell you is this…. if you witness a child run into the arms of his father after 6 months apart or a wife eagerly check her phone for any sliver of information as to her husband’s whereabouts then leap into his arms at first chance, and DON’T shed a tear… you’re not human. Can’t be. It isn’t possible.

Not only was I privileged to personally be a part of the homecomings of the families I photographed, but I witnessed the rejoining of so many others around me in those moments. When a grown man is down on his knees and his 6 year old runs so swiftly into his arms that he’s thrown to the ground. You WILL have to take a moment and collect yourself. I found myself crying over these strangers that I didn’t even know and marveling at the heart that it takes to be a part of this lifestyle.

And you know what’s crazy? They do it for me and you.

Yeah, have you ever thought about it like that?

These families don’t only put themselves into these situations for themselves. They serve this country for me and you. They sacrifice their time and loved ones, so that I can be free and live the life I so often take for granted. Think on that for a second.

So, do me a favor, will you? The next time you see a military service member, give back to them in any way you can.

Their families included.

Proud to be an American.