My little brother, Benton, has joined the Marines. It honestly took me a while to absorb the information. Then when I did I was mad at him for being selfish and leaving. Then I had to realize how ridiculous I was... This is the most selfless act. He is leaving family and friends. He is leaving a good job. He is leaving free time. He is leaving any chance for long hair (and there was a time when he had it). All because he feels called to serve his country. And I couldn't be more proud of him.
He leaves on Saturday for Officer Candidates School and then basic training. And I know he'll succeed because
he's smart
he could live off the land if necessary
he can outsmart anyone
he is an incredible athlete
he already wears camoflauge every day
he's the bravest (and sometimes craziest) person I know
Pretty much there's no one I would rather have defending me. I admire his strength, determination and complete selflessness. He is so excited to go, but say a prayer for our family because we still don't have quite the enthusiasm he has (but we're getting there). And BIG PRAYERS for Benton as he begins this journey!
Thursday, January 17, 2008
So proud
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7 comments:
That was a great post. Go Benton!
eliz,
my heart skipped a beat when i read this! i remember the little kid who would come to visit us and sleep on our couch. the funny cute adult who came to college to steal girl's hearts and now...wow! what a neat guy. i will have him in my prayers. very admirable indeed.
xoxo,
n
Tears...more tears! I am so proud of Benton and more proud of his patriotic sister!
You will never worry more, cry more, pray more, or sleep less then you will as a soldier's sister! Welcome!
Good Luck to Benton!!
Oh Rat, I am so proud of Benton! He is going to make a fine Marine! I will definitely keep him in my prayers.
Good for you for being a supportive sister. You know, Lisa's brother is in the military. He's been in Iraq on and off for several years. If you ever need someone to talk to, she'd be a good person.
Benton rocks. I can't help thinking of him as a kid since that's what he was when I was around him regularly, but I could not be more proud of him now. Even if I haven't seen him in years. Super proud of all the rest of you Austins for being so supportive, too. That's why y'all are my second favorite family ever. Much love and thanks to Benton for his service. He and all of you are in my prayers.
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