Twenty-four years ago my one and only child came into this world. Such a blessing. Back then I knew he was special, but I always tried to figure out why. Teachers from school, even his friends' parents commented on how they thought he was special, but they would just say we will know why someday. In May of 2001 the start of why he is so special happened. He walked into the recruiting military office in Woonsocket Rhode Island, straight past every military branch, until he reached the Marine Corps door, he entered and decided that this would be the path he would be honored to follow for the rest of his life. He also told the recruiter that he would certainly like to start out his Marine Career and duty with HMX One. He did just that! As his Mom you can imagine the pride I took in that.
We would have conversations about how proud I was, but my Son still wanted to do more. He was happy about his enlistment with HMX ONE, and one day he said, “Mom how about if I become a Marine who saves lives, instead of having to take lives?” I felt like this does not sound good, but I did admire his thinking. He then said , “Mom I am interested in becoming an Explosives Ordinance Disposal Tech. For a brief second my heart stopped, it was as if my Son's tiny little life had flashed before me. Of course being his mom I said, “you have never steered yourself in the wrong direction with any decision you have made so I will support you no matter what you decide. Today I am the Proud Mother of a Marine who is serving his first tour of duty in Iraq as an E.O.D Tech. Today my question is now answered as to why my Son is so special. Not only is he serving overseas, he is keeping peace, protecting the innocent, and making sacrifices for the good of his country.
Soon he will be home reunited with his family, and holding his beautiful baby boy who was born about a month ago. Now my Son will not only know the honor of serving his country, he will know the Honor and Privilege of having a Son to pass on his legacy. At this time I wish to Thank all of the brave Marines and other Military Forces for being who they are, without them we would not have a Free America. Thank You also to all of the parents who raised these children as if it was a Privilege, and not just their duty.
Proud to be Sgt Bernard J. Coyne Jr.'s MOM