“As the mother of a soldier who also served in Afghanistan, this post hit me straight in the heart. My son served at FOB Lightning and almost lost his life just two days before he was due to come home. Today he lives 100% disabled from his service.
Please know this: your son will never be forgotten. Heroes like Jake are the reason families like mine still got the miracle of bringing their child home. Freedom has always come at a cost, and your son paid the ultimate sacrifice for all of us.
What stood out most to me was not only the soldier he was, but the man he was — a Christian, an athlete, an artist, a dog lover, and the happiest guy in the platoon. That is how people will remember him. Not just for how he died, but for how he lived.
From one military family to another, thank you for sharing him with this country. We honor him, we grieve with you, and we will speak his name. Jake will never be forgotten. 🇺🇸❤️
On this day 13 years ago, my only son was sworn in to the US Army. In ten days, it will be 12 years since he was killed in Afghanistan 2 weeks before he was due to come home. He was just 21. This week is also Memorial Day. My greatest fear now is that he will be forgotten. Please help me remember my boy during this tough week of special dates (share if you feel inspired. It never gets easier but the love and support always helps. ♥️🇺🇸
Jacob H Wykstra
KIA May 28th, 2014
Maruf, Afghanistan
Jake was a Christian, an athlete, a patriot, an artist, dog lover, a friend to all and the funniest, happiest guy in the platoon. Jake, you’ve left a huge void in our lives, but we will see you one day and there will no more heartache and no more goodbyes ♥️🇺🇸