This is a photo of my mother from her time when she served in the United States Army. I really know very little about her time in the Army. I cannot even remember which base she served on for basic training.

I do recall it being in the south and her commenting about praying mantis so big they sounded like little flying helicopters coming in. She also recalled fireflies and how magical they were to her.

I don’t know how long she was in or even if she was honorably discharged. I recall hearing a story about something inappropriate that happened to her, but not sure if that got her out early or anything like that. She will not tell me anything, so I do not know that I will ever know.

However, in honor of Veterans Day, I share my closest veteran, my Mom. Happy Veterans Day!