Over the last 10 years, I have known many people who have served in the United States military. Some I met after they had already served, some were friends from high school who left after graduation. Most were acquaintances, a few were friends and with two, I had a fairly close relationship.

However, nothing has come close to seeing one of my closest friends prepare to leave for the Army.

I believe that many of us have become numb to the fact that so many men and women continue to ship out to war. I have seen quite a few people who seem oblivious to the fact that our nation is still embroiled in two different wars. I will be honest, my focus strays as well.

When I moved to Norwich in 1999, I didn’t start out with many friends. It’s tough for any kid moving to a new town and I was certainly “different” enough to warrant some skepticism from my fellow classmates about whether or not I was “cool.”

It was tough making friends, so I gained a healthy appreciation for the few I had. After the first year I entered middle school, which meant a fresh start and new friends. A few of the friends I made that year I haven’t seen or talked to since graduation; a few have remained close.

One of those friends will be leaving for boot camp on Nov. 9 and I won’t lie and say it doesn’t have me a little shook up.

When he told me, I was excited for the guy. He had been having some tough times and I could tell he was ready for a change.

“That’s fantastic!” I said. “If there’s anyone who could be a hero, it’s you.”