Having a family member in the military is both rewarding and challenging.
It's incredible to know that your spouse, sibling, or parent is so strong and patriotic, but it can be very difficult if they're deployed abroad.
Although they're serving their country and bringing honor to their friends and family, there's always the possibility that they won't return home — and that can be scary.
Young Addy Hawley might not understand the seriousness of her father's employment, but she definitely misses him.
She and her mom, Lauren, live together, and they're great friends and companions.
One thing they have in common? They both love going to the grocery store to visit Fred, a Vietnam veteran and greeter at the superstore.
Addy even calls Fred her "Sam's Club Grandpa."
Now, Lauren has taken to Facebook to explain just what their friendship with Fred means to her, and it's heartwarming to read.
[H/T: Love What Matters]
Love What Matters shared the story on their Facebook page, where it quickly got a lot of attention.
Within just five days, the post had over 12,000 reactions and over 500 shares.
Addy's mom wrote:
Fred is a Vietnam Vet turned Sam’s Club Grandpa.
With my husband deployed I can go days at a time without someone asking how I am, if I'm ok or even giving me a hug…but then comes Fred.
Addy asked for a picture with her “Sam’s Club Grandpa” Fred.
She said, 'Fred I love you so much! Tomorrow can you come to my house and read me a story?'
I’m a regular at Sam’s and just like Addy I get so excited to see him.
He is a familiar face…he always gives me a big hug and tells me that I'm doing a great job. Plus…he gets it.
He gets this life…he gets the numerous wives coming in alone (about to lose their minds) time after time for months…he gets the kids missing their Daddy. He knows the sacrifice.
Plus…he knows all the good fishing spots.
Fred most likely has no idea how much he means to our family…he has no idea how blessed I feel to see my little girl dart across the store with receipt in hand just to cling to his leg and give him the world’s biggest hug.
I'm so thankful for this vet that makes my kids feel like they have family here… I'm thankful that Fred has made me feel like I have family here!
When you don’t have family close by then you make people your family!
How sweet is this story? It’s such a nice reminder that everyday moments can mean so much.
If you're thankful for all the members of our military and their families, please SHARE this article with your friends!
