By Sgt. 1st Class Patricia Ruth
Multi-National Security Transition Command - Iraq

Staff Sgt. Glennie Burks, Jr., left, and Maj. Glennie Burks, Sr. enjoy some father-son time before his son re-deploys. Photo by Photo by Chief Petty Officer Michael Kennedy.

In 2003, Burks, Jr. did his first deployment to Iraq and received a bronze star for valor. He trained as a Military Policeman in 2008 and deployed again to Al-Kut, where he is currently.

"He is my hero!" exclaimed the elder Burks when asked about his son's accomplishments. "He received a bronze star for valor for saving two Soldiers from a burning Armored Personnel Carrier. Without regard for his own safety, he risked his life for the lives of his comrades.  He is my hero," he repeated.

The elder Burks, U.S. Army Maj. Glennie Burks, Sr. enlisted in 1984, when his son was just a few months old. Burks Sr. is currently serving as a Public Affairs Officer with Multi-National Security Transition Command - Iraq.

His background is also in Military Police work, and he has served in that capacity for over 13 years. The senior Burks' first tour was to Abu Grab in 2004, where he also earned a bronze star.

When asked about the similar paths he and his father have traveled in the military, Burks Jr. remarked, "My Dad's footsteps could never be trailed. He has done so much to mold me into the man I am today, but seeing myself endure some of the same encounters as him gives me a sense of pride, security, and the drive to become a good man for myself and my son."

Both Soldiers will re-deploy to Texas when their tour is over. Maj. Burks is going back to Houston while the younger Burks will head back to Fort Hood, Texas.