Military Mom Receives Heartwarming Graduation Message from Son Deployed at Border, Bringing Her to Tears
Jennifer Duggin, a mom from Woodbury, Tennessee, had an emotional surprise during her college graduation. Her son, Sgt. William Bailey, who is currently on duty at the Texas-Mexico border, sent her a heartfelt video message. The moment was captured on camera and has touched the hearts of many.
Duggin, who is also a military active herself in the Tennessee Army National Guard, understands the sacrifices that come with being in the military. She served in Iraq while raising her children and knows that missing special moments is part of the job. So, when Bailey couldn’t be there for her graduation, she wasn’t disappointed. Instead, she was overwhelmed with joy when she received the surprise video message.
In the video, Bailey can be seen dressed in his uniform, congratulating his mother on her graduation and expressing his love for her. The message brought Duggin to tears, as she was not expecting such a thoughtful gesture. It was a reminder of the strong bond between a mother and son, even when they are miles apart.
Bailey, who is currently serving in McAllen, Texas, as the US border crisis continues, wanted to show his appreciation for his mother’s unwavering support throughout his life. He expressed how seeing his mother happy always brings happiness to him because she will always be his number one.
Duggin’s journey to her graduation day was not an easy one. She joined the National Guard at the age of 17 but always had a dream of getting a college education. However, she put her country and family first, raising her children and serving in Iraq. It wasn’t until later in life that she decided to pursue her dream of higher education.
In 2014, Duggin started earning her associate’s degree and continued her education from there. She faced challenges and moments of wanting to quit, but she persevered and earned her bachelor’s degree in 2023. Determined to achieve more, she enrolled in graduate courses and completed her master’s degree in just one year with a 4.0 grade average. Duggin’s dedication and hard work paid off, and she now proudly displays her diplomas on her office wall.
Duggin’s commitment to education doesn’t stop at her own achievements. She also works as a readiness NCO, supporting and advising soldiers in their personal and professional lives. Her colleagues describe her as someone who goes above and beyond to take care of others, attending their events and treating everyone equally. Duggin hopes to share her experiences and inspire young people in the military to make the most of their opportunities.
As a military mom, Duggin understands the sacrifices that come with serving in the armed forces. She encourages men and women who are considering a military career, highlighting the guaranteed paycheck, benefits, and opportunities for education. Duggin believes that it’s never too late to pursue an education and encourages others to take it one class at a time if necessary.
Ultimately, the heartwarming graduation message from Sgt. William Bailey to his mother Jennifer Duggin serves as a reminder of the strong bonds within military families. It showcases the resilience, sacrifice, and love that exists between a military mom and her son. Duggin’s journey to her graduation day is an inspiration to all who face challenges and obstacles in their pursuit of education and success.
