It takes a village. In the civilian world, it really does take a village to raise a child. In the Army world, it takes even more than that. There have been countless people who have shaped my life growing up, but none compare to the effect of my Army family. I don’t say it enough, and maybe I haven’t said it to you at all, but to the women who helped raise me—who shaped me into the woman I am—thank you.

When I met you, I didn’t realize how important you would be in my life. I didn’t know how close we would become. I didn’t know that I would fall in love with watching your kids, enjoy hanging out on a daily basis with you, or that I would date your son. But here I am. And it’s all because of you.

I want to thank you for always being there. Even when you are halfway across the country, you’re only a phone call away. If I just need to chat or if I need advice, I always have you to fall back on for an ear to listen. You were there for my mom when she was sick and dad was deployed. It’s not easy being on your own, but you helped us make that a little easier. You helped take care of us. And for that, I cannot thank you enough.

You welcomed me into your family with open arms, and I practically became one of your kids. Your kids became like younger siblings, and I miss them like crazy every day. You guys have seen me at my worst and at my best and have loved me all the same. Thank you for loving me like one of your own.

Through everything, you have been there for me and my family. The rough times come and go, and so do deployments and moves. Sometimes it seems like life does not stop and there is so much to do, but when we need someone you are always there. You aren’t just another friend. You are family.

Some people are lucky to have one woman in their life that they can call a motherly figure. I have been blessed beyond belief to have so many women in my life that have been amazing role models. So to all my Army moms, thank you. Thank you for being you. Thank you for all that you have done for my family, for our Army community, and for our country. Hooah.