William Jazwinski wasn’t sure what he had done wrong when he was stopped by a police officer one day. Yet as their conversation continued, William realized what had happened: the man resembled the officer’s son, who had lost his life in Iraq.
William asked the officer what he had done wrong as he rolled down his car window, but the officer responded that he hadn’t been speeding. He only wanted to take the chance to say his thanks to William for his military service. William reminded the officer of his own son when he saw the military emblem on the back of his truck.
William stated that, after serving in Iraq for 15 months, he had just recently come back. He was informed by the officer that his own son had not returned from Iraq.
“You make me think of my son. I made you stop. I mistook you for him. Most days he’s gone, and I still can’t believe it, the officer remarked. William exited his truck when the officer requested a hug, and the two men embraced. The hug was appreciated since he had just finished his post-traumatic stress disorder therapy session.
William Jazwinski wrote down their conversation:
Me- Good morning officer. Was I speeding?
Officer- Good morning, no You weren’t speeding up. I just wanted to thank you for your service by stopping by.
Me- oooh the bumper sticker, nice. Your welcome sir. My pleasure.
Officer- where did you serve?
Me- I went to Iraq. for a 15-month project. from Fort Benning.
Officer- Well, that’s ok. My son visited Iraq. He didn’t come back home.
Me- Sir, My condolences for that. I recently completed a P TSD program. Officer- You have a flag on your truck, I see. which we obtained for him! It’s at the house, I suppose. Can I ask a question?
Me- Yes.
Officer-Would you mind going coming out so I may hug you? You make me think of my son. I made you stop. I mistook you for him. Most days he is gone, and I still can’t believe it.
I stepped out and gave that man a big hug as tears welled up in our eyes. I’ve been crying for a few minutes while talking about it. We were in tears, on our knees. I wanted that.
“To all the family and friends of warriors, fighting or done fighting, God bless you,”
William concludes his post. Your hearts and your tranquility. I know, it’s very difficult without them. This path is really challenging. I love you all.
My deepest respect, and gratitude for all who have served our Country. Your bravery and commitment have meant that I can live in peace because you have our backs. God bless you all for your sacrifice, the parents who live that sacrifice, the spouses and children who live that sacrifice.