11/05/2025
This week I gave Bri the week off from writing our Facebook posts so we can focus on a little education in honor of Veterans Day.
If you’ve driven by the clinic recently, you may have noticed green lights shining in our window. And no—Lisa hasn’t started decorating early for Christmas (though it is her favorite holiday!).
The green lights are displayed to honor my son, who is currently completing Week 8 of Basic Training, a milestone known as “The Forge.”
The Forge is the final exam so to speak to evaluate soldiers’ physical endurance, mental toughness, teamwork, and mastery of basic soldiering skills before graduation.
Duration:
Typically 4 days and 3 nights, covering about 40–50 miles of marching with full gear.
Activities Include:
• Long ruck marches (day and night)
• Tactical operations and simulated combat missions
• Land navigation exercises
• Weapons handling and marksmanship
• First aid and casualty evacuation drills
• Defensive positions and field living (sleeping outdoors, eating MREs)
It is used to simulate the stresses and challenges of real combat operations while forcing trainees to rely on teamwork, leadership, and discipline.
Successfully completing The Forge marks the transition from trainee to Soldier. It usually ends with an emotional “rite of passage” ceremony, where soldiers receive their Army beret or patch, symbolizing that they’ve earned the title of U.S. Army Soldier.
So why the Green lights?
The green light represents hope, renewal, and support for our Soldiers, signifying that their families are thinking of them and cheering them on from home. Lighting a green light serves as a visible reminder that while they are completing this critical milestone, they are not alone — their loved ones and communities stand behind them, honoring their strength and sacrifice.
During wartime, especially in World War I and World War II, many families placed candles or lights in their windows as a visible sign of support for service members and as a symbol of waiting and hope for their safe return. It was also seen as a safe spot for a solider who may have lost their way!
As we look ahead to Veterans Day next week, let us take a moment to reflect on the tremendous sacrifices made by the men and women who have served to protect our nation. Their dedication, courage, and selflessness embody the very best of our country.
Let us also take pride in those within our own community who have chosen to serve—whether on active duty or in the National Guard—and express our gratitude for their ongoing commitment to safeguarding our freedoms.
