WIESBADEN, Germany - It is said that less than one percent of the population of the U.S. serve in the military. So, for some people, seeing a member of the military is a rare sight. But even harder to find is a family of service members.
For the Blombachs though that is exactly what they are, a family of servicemembers. Mother, father, son and daughter all serving in the U.S. Army.
"Less than one percent of the American population wears a military uniform, I am proud that I am one of the few," says Chief Warrant Officer 3 Sheliene Blombach, a Human Resources Technician for U.S. Army Europe's Headquarters and Headquarters Battalion.
Not only do Sheliene and her husband, Lt. Col. Chris Blombach from USAREUR's Intelligence department, have the distinction of together having more than 50 years of military service, but they can also say that both their children are serving.
"I wanted to join when I was 17 years old, but my dad wouldn't sign the paperwork," said Sheliene, recalling how she feels about her son and daughter-in-law serving. "Honestly, thinking about my son and daughter-in-law being in the Army at the same time as my husband and I is amazing; I never thought I would see this time come to pass."
Their daughter, Amanda, enlisted earlier this year and is currently attending initial entry training. She enlisted to be a health-care specialist and eventually becoming a nurse.
"I was shocked when she said she wanted to join but also proud," said Sheliene. "She is a strong young woman and so far is truly enjoying basic training."
Spc. Daniel Stephens, their son who joined in early 2012, is a behavioral health technician in Landstuhl, Germany. Daniel recalled how it was exciting to grow up with both parents in the military.
Daniel said he enjoyed living the life of an Army child, he got to experience many things while growing up in the military, including traveling to different countries and doing things most kids don't get to experience growing up.
Daniel enlisted because he wanted to help Soldiers and family members who offered him so much help while he was growing up.
"I am able to give back to the community and the military," Daniel said, "I joined the Army because it was the best opportunity to do what I wanted as a career."
Daniel describes the sense of awe that he feels with his parents when he is around them in uniform.
"I strive to model myself after the example I have been shown by my parents , not only in their specific fields but in their everyday work ethic," Daniel says. "I make every effort to not only make them proud but to also represent the Army and the uniform I wear everyday in a manner in which would make those in my family and those who are part of my branch proud."
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