Thank you

Back State side, I was behind a man in his military uniform. We were in the same line going through security at the airport. He was with his absolutely beautiful wife and his young boy.  We get to a point in the line where non ticket holders cannot pass.. His wife and their son were not getting on the flight..  This is where he tries to keep a strong face and then his wife’s eyes begin to fill with water.. He gives a tight smile not to reveal too much emotion. The line is moving uncomfortably slow.. Tension grows and so does the emotions.. I cannot help but put myself in the their position and I start to get choked up.. As we are waiting for our bags to come down the short x-ray belt. His wife is no longer in sight but I gather that his mind is still with her..

As I pick up my bags I say a heart felt Thank you..

With the utmost honor, his reply in a soft strong voice was, I PROUDLY SERVE.

Got-dam solider my thoughts are with you.. Hope you make it back home safely.