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People often don’t realize the sacrifices of our soldiers serving in the military, let alone the sacrifices of their families. These brave military men and women are more than just soldiers. They have many roles in their civilian lives. Some of them are fathers, mothers, sisters, brothers, uncles, aunts, friends, and so much more. Leaving behind these special roles to answer their call of duty to keep our country safe, they travel to distant lands with the hope of returning to the bosom of their families. However, it is unfortunate that many will pay the ultimate sacrifice along with their families and never come home. Others will return home facing many physical and mental challenges, but these are our patriotic American soldiers.
As we celebrate Veterans Day this month, After Dark is joined by Karl Porfirio, a Gold Star Dad, who shares the memory of his beloved son Tre Porfirio, and other brave soldiers who are serving and have served our nations’ military. And while his son, Tre, died in 2010, Karl says he “honors every man and woman” who protects our country so that we may have the freedom we have today.
Karl Porfirio is the author of “My Daddy’s Heart is Purple,” a book he wrote to teach children about the meaning of the Purple Heart medal. The book also has a personal touch to it, as it is written in memory of this son, Tre, and dedicated to his grandson, Landon, whom he describes as having the “great smile” of his father. Tre was a Senior Airman in the Airforce. He died at the age of 22.