Our Gold Star families are national treasures, and Pat Marek is a treasure to my family. Pat is the mother of Matt Commons. Matt was my Ranger buddy, and he gave his life in service to our country on March 4, 2002.

Pat and I admittedly stayed distant from each other over the years to not emotionally hurt one another. That has changed with this podcast as we shared laughs and tears while we remembered her son and my friend.

I hope you all listen to Pat's story, and if you are struggling with a loss, I encourage you to talk with someone. It really does help.