I second that George. He and soldiers like him are why I sleep good at night.
It ironic you posted this tonight. I spent most of the day in the woods with my brother-in-law today. He's from California and never hunted, but he's decided he wants to learn how to deer hunt. I'm gladly teaching him the stuff only us old guys know. ;~)
He joined the army 19 years ago. About the time the pic of your boy was taken. He joined because of soldiers like your son and the job they were doing in Iraq. He wanted to do his part and 19 years later he's just back from his first tour to Afghanistan. He'd already done a couple tours in Iraq.
I have to say, if he is any indication of the kind of young men and women we have representing and protecting us...we are in dang good shape!
So yeah, tell him thanks for us. If he's like my brother-in-law...he'll be embarrassed and humble, but he'll get over it and he should be told.