Checkman asked Joy N. Hensley:

No more push-ups? I understand. I did fourteen years in the U.S. Army (1986-2000) and I am resolved to never again go "camping" for however many years I have left. So have you given any thought to what you will say or do if one of your kids announces his/her intention to go into the military whether as an officer or enlisted.

Joy N. Hensley First, thank you so much for your service! I'm honored that you took the time to write to me! I have two boys who visit Virginia Military Institute with me almost weekly to watch parades during the school year. They've both picked out the companies they want to be in (Band-for the drums, and Alpha-because, well, Alpha! :-) ). I grew up in a very patriotic family. I get goose bumps at the Pledge of Allegiance and teary-eyed during the Star-Spangled Banner and America, the Beautiful. My grandfather was in the Navy, my brother-in-law, the Marines. Some of my uncles served and I have friends from my time in Norwich in the service. While Rites of Passage definitely shows a darker side to military schools, I certainly hope I showed my love for the soldiers who honor the uniform and our country by standing up for those who find it difficult to stand up for themselves.

As for how I would feel if my sons decide to enlist or become officers, I would be thrilled, as long as they are doing it to serve their countries to the best of their abilities. I want my boys to be proud of what they are doing and if that comes with putting on a uniform, I'll be behind them 100%!

Happy 4th!

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