Created: 11/25/2008 6:04:28 PM 
JACKSONVILLE, FL -- Aaron Johnson served more than 20 years in the United States Army before going into the private sector. And this Thanksgiving week, like he does every day, he is missing his oldest son, Aaron, Junior.
"The success of a son -- is what we all look for as a father. So that's what I'm most proud of is that he's successful. He's a fine young man. I think he's the greatest son that any father could have! I love him very much. I miss him a lot," said the senior Johnson.
Thanksgiving will be extra hard for the family of Aaron Johnson senior, whose son, Airman 1st Class Aaron, Junior, is in Iraq. He is an elite member of the Honor Guard half a world away in a place of war.
"Scary. Scary thought, you know. Trust that he's being well taken care of. One thing about the military I do know is that when you're abroad, it's like a family away from home," said Johnson.
What this loving, respectful Dad didn't know when he agreed to share his thoughts of his son so far from home on the holidays was a surprise recording of Junior, played for Dad for the first time Tuesday afternoon.
"Hi! My name is Airman 1st Class Aaron Johnson. I'm with the 506th security forces out of Kirkuk Airbase. I want to wish a Happy Holidays to everyone in Jacksonville, Florida, and especially Happy Holidays to Aaron, Annette and Thomas Johnson. Be safe...and have a Happy New Year!" said the smiling Aaron, Junior.
As the video played, his Dad was overwhelmed with emotion.
"What he's doing -- I'm really proud of him," said Johnson.
And then it was Dad's turn to return the message, which ends with:
"I want to wish you and all of the troops over there a very happy holiday. Do the best you can. Enjoy the best of it. And be safe. Keep your head up! And we love all of you and we support all of you. Thank you!"
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