Regardless of politics, collectively society owes a debt of gratitude to its military personnel. These brave human beings make significant sacrifices in order to serve their country. It can be easy for the average layperson to forget this.
Jenna Bush Hager did a special story on the Today show about this topic to help keep military personnel and their families front of mind. On April 23 of this year, she was present onboard the USS George H.W. Bush as 5,000 men and women reunited with their families after an eight-month deployment in Europe and the Mediterranean. It was a special day and an honor to witness.
This day had a deeper meaning for Jenna because the aircraft carrier was named for her grandfather. Former President George H.W. Bush served in World War II as a navy pilot. Jenna was present in 2006 when the vessel was christened.
Jenna’s segment aired on April 24. "It was a day I will never forget," Jenna recalled. The day was a beautiful and emotional one.
More from LittleThings: Jenna Bush Hager Reveals Racy Personal Secret Live On TV: 'Mom Has Never Been More Proud'
Some of the brave souls Jenna watched included naval air traffic controller Craig Holloway, Chief Stephen Vaiza, and Lieutenant Cornetha Williams. The trio opened up about their emotions ahead of seeing their families. They were buzzing with anticipation.
"I think I'll be overcome with joy," Cornetha mused. "Just pure joy." She is a mother of two and was eager to see her children and husband.
Craig was about to meet his baby son Vincent for the first time. He couldn’t wait. "I will definitely cry," he predicted.
Stephen wrote wife Lisa love letters while he was away. He was eager to hand-deliver them. He wrote them to “let her know that she was always on my mind, and what helped me through the deployments.”
"They’re the future of our country, and they’re willing to do what it takes for liberty and freedom," proudly stated Captain David Pollard about people under his command. "And your grandfather said, 'Let future generations know the burden and the blessings of freedom.'"
Jenna could not agree more. She is continuing her grandfather’s legacy. "I think we forget sometimes how much they sacrifice," she said.
