Bethany,
The very fact that your son stood up and willfully chose to enlist in the Military proves right there that he is NOTHING close to a loser. So, don't blame yourself...you raised an extremely BRAVE son who, for whatever reason, chose to step up to serve. I have twin sons (step-sons) that joined the Army. They were both involved in JROTC in school and loved it. They moved to Texas to live with my husband and I after high school to have better chances at jobs (there's nothing where their mother lives). One had already taken classes to become an EMT and planned to go to school to become a Paramedic. One day, he comes in and tells me he thinks he's going to the Army Recruiting office. Like you, at first we were worried sick...and, should he be deployed, we will worry again. He's now a Combat Medic. He loves his job. The other one, started going to Airplane Maintenance School. After hearing all the stories about the Army from his brother....and his experience in JROTC, he decided to join the Army as well. He's now a Tanker. He loves his job. I cannot begin to describe to you the feeling seeing your son graduating from Basic Combat Training and then again from Individual Training. And, the pride they have in themselves is amazing. Basic Combat Training starts off rough...but, they go through phases and it gets easier. They have to remember that. It can be hard on a parent when you don't hear from them....there are support groups on Facebook for the different Bases/MOSs (Military Operational Speciality - just in case you haven't learned that one yet :) ). They listen, share your feelings, tell you what to expect and where to go on Graduation Day! As far as worrying about his safety...of course that is a concern, but, he could be hurt outside the Military, too...and that we just have to give to God. I will keep you and your son in my prayers. I truly hope my words are helpful in any way because I understand how it feels to worry about them - no matter what they do! From one extremely proud Army Parent.