Frances Richey

If you happen to read the December issue of Woman's Day magazine, please look for my essay starting on page 30. My assignment was to write about how I felt when Ben, my son, joined the military when I was against it, and how I came to terms with his decision. Though I have covered this ground in poetry, it was very liberating to write about it in prose. I loved going back again to memories of our first visit to West Point, and how, over time, Ben re-educated me about the importance of having a strong military, and the part our great military leaders have played in securing the freedoms we talk about but often take for granted. And the article gave me a chance to include some quotes from Ben that aren't included in The Warrior.