My family has a wonderful history of military service, including my dad, my mom, two of my aunts, one of my uncles, and my brother.

My mother enlisted in the Air Force when she was 18 years old. She served part-time in the reserves while she raised my siblings and me and went full-time with the Air National Guard when I turned 10. She was promoted to the rank of colonel in 2010.

I am thankful for all she has sacrificed for our family and for our country. I am so proud of my mother!

Mom served in Iraq a few summers ago. On top of her regular duties, she helped women and young girls with their English. She also got to meet, greet, and escort several high profile people. (My sister and I were amazed she met Angelina Jolie and one of my brothers was excited she met Stephen Colbert. My mom had very little idea who these people were at the time.)

Mom giving a speech at the Fourth of July celebration in Iraq.

My mom and vice president Joe Biden.

Mom’s colonel pinning ceremony.

Check out Mom’s ribbon bling! There are even several missing in this picture:

My brother, Matt, also recently served in Iraq with the Army. I like this picture of my Mom and brother a lot:

THANK YOU to all our wonderful veterans! Thank you for your service and sacrifices.