We had an interesting experience on the way home. While we waited for our flight from Chicago to Columbia (delayed several hours), we realized that there was a group of Army soldiers also booked on our flight. They weren't in uniform, but their camo backpacks and buzzed haircuts gave them away. I observed them as they chatted with two brothers who were about 9 and 11. They were so kind to the boys, actively listening and showing interest in them. The boys were obviously idolizing the soldiers. It made me proud to see these young soldiers behaving in such a way.
When our flight was finally ready to go, we were the last to board because they weren't sure they'd have enough seats for us. Our seats were scattered on three different rows. I asked the woman seated in row 3 if she would be willing to trade so I could sit by one of my children. She rolled her eyes and made it obvious she wasn't interested, so I continued back to our other seats in rows 8 and 9, leaving David to sit by her. (Sometimes I wonder if people like her have children, or remember what it was like to be a child. All the seats on the plane were aisles and windows, so it wasn't like I was asking her to sit in a middle seat.) When I got to row 8, it was an exit row, so my kids couldn't sit there. The flight attendant let me know they couldn't sit there, but didn't offer any alternatives.
I was agitated and stressed out because I knew we were holding everyone up. Just then, three or four of the soldiers stood up and offered to trade. They worked it out among themselves so that I could sit by both Jalen and Baylie. I almost cried. They did it without any fanfare, but with such courtesy. Again, I was really impressed by them and proud to have them represent our country.
At some point during the flight, it hit me that one of these soldiers could die in action. I don't know why, but for the first time, the sacrifice our soldiers make hit home to me. I've had family members serve, but for some reason, this seemed more personal - more probable, and it made me very sad. How many young men like them, of their caliber, do we lose to war? They are real people, with families, friends, loved ones and little boys that idolize them. I am grateful to them. I wish they were all safe.
