Introducing: Pvt. Noah Johnson
My nephew just completed basic training and is now officially a private in the United States Army. He’s now undergoing more specialized training. He had been planning to enter the Airborne Rangers, but has decided against it. He’s stick with the regular infantry, which is elite enough for his tastes.
This new round of training will be over in time for him to return to Peoria on Dec. 17 (or close to that date) and he’ll be here for about three weeks. I haven’t seen a decent movie since he left, so we’ll have to see at least two a week while he’s here.
Before he returns, he’ll have his official graduation, which I won’t be able to attend.
He says he lost 16 pounds. I don’t know how this skinny kid managed to lose that much weight.
Of course, all the women-folk in the family are scared to death that they’ll ship him off to Iraq or Afghanistan. That’s a possibility, but it’s one he knew when he signed up and I am absolutely certain he’ll do himself and his country proud no matter what duty he pulls.
I’ll post a picture of him in his uniform as soon as I get one. I’ll see what I can do to get him into a bar for beer. I figure a man who can fight for his nation should have the right to quaff a few with his uncle.
Billy Dennis is a former reporter and editor at small daily and weekly newspapers in Illinois and Missouri. He comments on media, news and politics. He also owns and operates 
Well, congrats to Pvt. Johnson and to his proud family.
ps. Your comment system does not “remember” my info.
So, as a female in the family, I can honestly say I am scared shitless!!! My fear only makes me prouder. I had a huge part in raising that boy and this entire experiance has been overwhelming. The fact that I can be so scared of something that Noah is looking right in the face makes me prouder than I can express. Don’t worry Uncle Bill we will all have a long memorable toast with the brave PVT. Noah Johnson.