It is good to have a tight family. I am jealous. I have a tight family, but have been far away from them for a decade. Thankfully, technology allows me to call them and video chat with them. Not the real thing, but it helps.

It is funny though when you wake up one day and find out that you are someone's role model

You chose a life of service to your country
And this is an example of the sacrifices you make, and your family makes
Strong moral values do have a cost

True story. I have mentored many Marines, and a few actually looked up to me without me knowing. I didn't know until years later they contacted me and thanked me for my leadership.

I know it isn't the same as being a father, but it sure felt like it to me. I have never been so proud.

Edit: The true story was directed at your comment before the one above this one.

Thank you for your kind words.

It is something that runs in the family. Every man in my family I know of, has served. Odd family tradition for a family with the name Peace.

For a number of years my wife and I were foster parents and some of my most proud moments came from that
Making a difference in somebody's life by mentoring them is a real gift
Not everyone has the desire or ability to do it

One of my role models was not related to me at all, but to the day I die he will be my uncle Sid

Every generation in my dad's family as far back as we can search have had members that served
At the battle of Jutland my grandmother lost 22 cousins

I have a very high respect for those that serve
I honestly believe that being a soldier is a noble career

Have you ever read "Starship Troopers?"

Years ago right after the movie came out

I just finished it. I saw the movie along time ago. And didn't read it until I saw it was on the Commandant of the Marine Corps' recommended reading list. It is nothing like the movie.

it really made me think about what it means to serve. I moved me to say the least. Am I that important? I don't know, but I feel like I make a difference.

Every soldier makes a difference
Whether it is staring across a battle field, piling sandbags to avert a flood or a million other things that they do every day
Usually without fanfare or anyone noticing

I've filled and piled my share of sand bags. Difference made <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/wink.gif" alt="" />