Gold Star Mother joins ranks of 916th

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SEYMOUR JOHNSON AIR FORCE BASE, N.C. --  Editor's note:  Michele Norris joined the 916th Air Refueling Wing as a maintenance training specialist in October 2009. Below she tells her story of service and sacrifice.

It was exactly four years to the day after my son, Jeremy Michael Hodge, was born that I initially enlisted into the United States Air Force on July 07, 1989. Coincidence, I am not sure. 

Six years later on July 07, 1995, again on my son's birthday, I reenlisted in the United States Air Force Reserve and served until 1998. A coincidence again, I am not sure. 

My son's life has closely followed my military career not only in regards to these significant dates but also with pride in his ultimate decision to join the military himself. 

Jeremy was a precocious child who had so many aspirations for his life when he was growing up. His interests ranged from football, baseball, NASCAR racing to even performing in his high school show choir. Whatever his choice of activity, he always gave 100 percent.; particularly when it came to his three sisters Alyssa, Nicole and Denise, I believe he gave 110 percent as most brothers do when it comes to aggravating their sisters.

It did not surprise me when Jeremy initially came to me with his idea of joining the military. His zest for life and his determination to change the world would serve him well in the military. He was a young man who had the energy, determination and perseverance to conquer and succeed in anything he desired. 

Our conversations as to which military branch to join were more like a volleyball game. Of course I wanted him to join the USAF; however, he did not want to follow those footsteps, he wanted to make his own footprints in the world. He decided to join the Ohio National Guard on Feb 10, 2004 with the 612th Engineer Battalion, Tiffin, Ohio.

 Many parents during this time of turmoil had great trepidation to the idea of their son or daughter joining the military. Even with the known consequences, I was tremendously proud of the decision that my son had made because I knew he was destined for success. I had no idea that the definition of his success would eventually be known as American hero.

On October 10, 2005 Jeremy was killed in action during Operation Iraqi Freedom, a devastating day in the lives of his family and friends; a day in which the meaning of "ultimate sacrifice" became a severe reality; a reality in which so many other families have endured as well; a day that changed my life and the lives of his family forever. 

Jeremy gave me the title of mom and now the title of Gold Star Mother, both titles associated with sacrifice and pride; both titles filled with devotion and honor. Regardless of your political views, the fact of the matter is that thousands of young men and women have given the ultimate sacrifice to protect the freedom of this country and the sovereignty that we embrace everyday. It is our duty as Americans to never forget these fallen heroes and we should honor them in our everyday lives.

Although many do not understand the "calling" to the military, for those who have had the honor to serve I need not explain. Therefore, it is not a surprise to my family the need and desire to continue my service. Through their support and understanding I decided to continue my military journey in the Air Force Reserve. I have had a significant break in service; in fact, it has been 11 years since I separated. During this time, I achieved great personal and professional successes. Successes, experiences and leadership achievements that I want to share in order to make a positive impact on my country and to those who so unselfishly serve her. Therefore, to achieve my goals, on the eve of my son's anniversary- October 9, 2009 - I enlisted.

The swearing in ceremony was held at the Drug Enforcement Administration's Training Academy in Quantico, Virginia. I was sworn in by Col.Rich Anderson, United States Marine Corps, commanding officer, Office of Military Support, Naval Criminal Investigative Service. 

Col. Anderson and I met as a result of the Gold Star that I honorably display. The insignia of the gold star enclosed in a red rectangle signifies a Gold Star family member. Col. Anderson recognized the Gold Star immediately and wanted to hear the story of my son. 

When Col. Anderson heard of the news that I was going to reenlist he volunteered to administer the oath of enlistment. It was truly a remarkable day for such a significant date. The date of my reenlistment - October 9, 2009 - I did not choose; although a date I am confident will again change my life just as my son did. A date of coincidence, you decide.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank all the brave men and women who have served and are currently serving in the armed services; I look forward to again getting the opportunity to work with you. 

Dedicated to all of the parents who have lost a son or daughter,
God bless you and your family.
Michele Norris