Empathizing with the loved ones of soldiers at time of deployment

Remarks Delivered at the Deployment Ceremony for the 262 Component Repair Company

Every time I attend a deployment or a homecoming ceremony — whether it is in Delaware, Fort Bragg, North Carolina, Washington, DC, or anywhere else in this country — I am overwhelmed when I see our men and women in uniform. I am amazed at your courage, your dignity, and your sense of patriotism and commitment to this country.

I am proud to be here today as the Second Lady, but I am even more proud to be here as the mother of a soldier who is a member of the Delaware Army National Guard.

{mosads}Just 6 months ago, I stood where you are standing, as my son was deployed last October, so I know what you families are feeling today.  It’s a mixture of pride and sadness.  We honor and support our soldiers, but we know how much we’ll miss them in the year ahead.  I’ll bet that like me, you felt like you could hold it together until you heard those bagpipes coming down the field!  

Michelle Obama and I have been working together to create awareness of the service of our men and women in uniform.  We have been meeting with the Generals and their spouses, visiting bases, and trying to make our soldiers’ lives better through higher education, veterans’ benefits, and increased health care.  It is our sacred duty to take care of the men and women who serve this country.

Most Americans think about the war — maybe a couple times a week.  As families of soldiers, I know that you will think about your loved one several times a day.  

{mosads}You, like your soldier, are making your own personal sacrifice for this country. I want you to know that this country appreciates your courage and your strength, and I also want our soldiers to know that your loved ones are not and will not be alone.

So, as I stood where you are standing, Jane Vavala, the General’s wife, quietly slipped a prayer into my hand.  I think it’s only fitting that I leave you with a prayer that will hopefully offer you some solace in the days ahead:

“Dear God, I pray to give each soldier the courage and strength to do the duty that is required of them.  May they always remember our appreciation for the sacrifice they are making for us.  We are thankful for the men and women who are willing to risk their lives to protect our freedom.  I ask you to go with each one of them and protect them wherever they go. Amen.”

God bless you.  Thank you.

Jill Biden is the wife of Vice President Joe Biden.