While serving in the United States Army E5 promotable 3 ID Aviation Brigade, Hunter Army field in Savannah, Ga. I went to war in Iraq stationed in Baghdad. Well, one day while patrolling the streets on foot. I was suddenly stopped by a mother with her young child. The mother had asked me if I would mind taking a picture with her daughter. Of course I said yes. After the picture was taken the mother said to her daughter "one day you can be anything you want just like this female soldier." That made me feel proud! I felt as though I had a purpose. Unlike in the beginning of war. I will never forgot the smiles on their faces and the hope in their eyes.

Shauna LaPan
Fort Walton Beach, FL