“My father gave me the greatest gift anyone could give another person, he believed in me.”

― Jim Valvano

This heart-breaking photo was recently posted by TheMacMan on reddit .

The caption reads simply, “His mom caught him spending time with his daddy. He lost daddy (SFC Benjamin Wise) in Afghanistan on Jan 15th.”

SFC Wise died Jan. 15, 2012 of injuries sustained when his unit was engaged by enemy small-arms fire in Konduz Province, Afghanistan. He was posthumously awarded the Bronze Star Medal, Purple Heart and Meritorious Service Medal.

Sadly, this is the second son his parents have lost in the line of duty. Their son Jeremy, a former Navy Seal, was killed in a terrorist attack outside a CIA outpost in Afghanistan in December of 2009.

So often take we for granted the depth of sacrifice these soldiers make on our behalf, and with each new day. We don’t often think of their families waiting patiently at home, or let our thoughts drift to images of those who are never coming back.

And, when breaking news flashes across our computer screens―how often do we take the time to learn a little more about the hero behind the headline?

I believe this photo captures so eloquently what I have tried and failed to convey with my words.

There is no greater sacrifice than a little boy losing his dad.

Perhaps, this Father’s Day we might share our loving energy with those many little ones who are missing their dads.

And to this, brave little man―my dear, I am so forever grateful for the gift of your dad.

Video: Dance with my Father

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