This post is coming a bit late but one that I need to share as we continue to celebrate Memorial Day.
A few weeks ago, my Mads and I were driving home from my parents’ house. And, like any other day, we hit a small patch of traffic. Longest traffic light ever. My mind wandered, and I started looking at the cars and trucks to my right. One white truck stood out. It had a memorial sticker for a fallen solider. These, unfortunately, are not uncommon, however I couldn’t take my eyes off this particular sticker.
The sticker was in honor of Sgt. Amanda N. Pinson. She was born in July, 1984 – just two weeks before me. She was killed in combat March 16, 2006 at 21 years old. I thought back to what I was doing during this period of my life. While this young woman fought for her country, I was finishing college, hanging out with friends, and thinking about my next steps in this huge world. Honestly, I had no clue what my next steps were, but because of my amazing country and the people that fight for our rights, like Sgt. Pinson, I could be slightly lost for a moment in time and be safe.
In a moment, the light turned green, and I continued driving.
A day later, I was driving on the interstate – one that was familiar and that I traveled often, however something jumped out at me. This particular stretch of interstate was dedicated in memory of Sgt. Amanda Pinson. Surprised. Shocked. Her name appeared to me again. She came to mind. And instead of thinking backwards, I thought about present day. Today, Sgt. Pinson and I would be nearing our 30th birthdays. I’m not sure where she would be in her grand life’s plan, but I had an overwhelming sense of gratitude and appreciation for her brave fight because I’m able to live out my grand life plan thanks to her service.
Even now, as I remember these moments of Sgt. Pinson and how she came into my life, I can’t help but think of the sacrifice and love she gave to all of us. I never knew or met Sgt. Pinson, but if given the chance, words could never express my thanks. A hug or a handshake wouldn’t be enough. However, we will remember. I will remember. Thank you for your bravery and sacrifice, Sgt. Pinson.
And to all of the men and women that continue to fight, thank you for your service.
Amber
May 27, 2014I was born in 1984 too! The sacrifice they’ve made is so hard to comprehend. It seems like nothing will ever be enough of a thank you.
annehnert
May 29, 2014I often feel the same way. How can you repay something to someone that gives so much. We can only hope and pray they know and can feel that gratitude in some way.
Thankful Thursday // 04 | eat.sleep.market.
May 29, 2014[…] +Soldiers […]
Jennifer Jerome
December 11, 2014Hi Ann! My name is Jennifer and I’m SGT Amanda Pinson’s cousin. For the last 8 years and 9 months I’ve been keeping my vow in making sure her memory lives on. So about once a year I check the internet for anything new written about her and share it with our family & friends on her memorial Facebook page that I maintain. You can view it here: https://www.facebook.com/SGTAmandaPinson
My cousin was a 11 years younger than me. She was this amazingly sweet, modest yet spunky girl who just made everyone who met her fall in love with her charisma. She always had this way of making everyone she met feel special; that’s because that’s how she saw them. She truly loved people During her time overseas she saved countless soldiers lives. Because of her work, many men & women were able to come home to their families. Because of her…I met my husband (she replaced him in Iraq).
i could go on and on about her for weeks straight, but I welcome you to come visit her memorial page and learn more. That is where I (and sometimes her mom; my aunt) share memories and tributes of her life. However, before I “enclose” this, I want to thank you. Thank you for taking the time to write about her. It’s through posts like these that Amanda’s memory lives on <3
Ann Ehnert
December 12, 2014Jennifer, I can’t thank you enough for stopping by and sharing this and the link to the memorial page. I will be looking at it soon. I’m glad she was able to come into my life and allow me to share this post. Thank you!