As of today, this young man is now SFC Lindner.
Jeremy has attained the same rank as his old man, and in about 2/3rds of the time. He got off to a somewhat rocky start in the Army, but managed to work his way back to become a true professional.
Although I try every day to find a way to cope with my country having sent my son to war, I could be no prouder of him than I am.
When he first told me that he was going to reenlist I thought my heart was going to burst. But I also knew it was what he wanted, that he was happy doing what he does, that he does it well, and that he takes pride in that fact. A father has no choice but to support his son in those circumstances. [And if you happen to think it's not possible to support your children's choices yet still be proud, then you live a blissfully simple life.]
Here’s a more recent picture from Christmas morning 2006:
Speaking as an adult child, let me just say that there’s nothing that makes you feel better than hearing your parent say they’re proud of you, of who you are, and of what you’ve done. Congrats to both of you for finding that place where you can communicate it.
And congratulations, as well, to SFC Lindner!
Thank you, Jenica. That is very important to me, since it wasn’t that long ago that we weren’t talking at all.
I did get a chance to IM with him just a bit ago this evening.
PS (not regarding Jenica’s comment): I see I wasn’t very clear again. I did and do support Jeremy’s decision to stay in the Army, although I might be happier supporting a different one.
My [side comment] was only a comment about the possibility of being proud of your children whether or not you support their decision(s).
I tried to comment on this the other day, but I guess it didn’t work. I just wanted to thank you for this blog and especially thank you for supporting me no matter what! I love you Dad!
Wow I randomly googled Jeremy and found this! Of course I knew Jeremy in h.s. and I’m not surprised at all to see he is doing well!