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A father's love without regret (Part II)

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Amber R. Kelly-Herard
  • 332nd Air Expeditionary Wing Public Affairs
JOINT BASE BALAD, Iraq --  Prior to Mrs. Lammey's stroke, the Lammey Family endured another misfortune.

Their middle child, Dyshali, seemed to catch any illness as a child. It was not until he was six-years-old that doctors discovered he had an immune system deficiency. Before this diagnosis, Dyshali spent most of his life in-and-out of a hospital, but since then whenever he is sick he can go to the hospital, be treated and leave shortly after.

"He's been perfectly healthy since then and mostly goes to the doctor only for an annual check-up like most children," said Sergeant Lammey.

Recently Dysahli was named Youth of the Year at Shaw AFB and he will progress to the 2011 Air Combat Command Teen of the Year competition. His dream is to become an oncologist or hematologist to help other kids who have his deficiency and he hopes to find a cure one day.

The family's oldest, Army Spc. Shakia Horn, joined the Army in 2009 to become an Army Ranger. While in jump schooled he injured his knee and was medically removed from the program until he heals. He hopes to return to jump school after his tour in Iraq to become an Army Ranger.

Currently, Specialist Horn is stationed near Mosul, Iraq, as a vehicle operator. Sergeant Lammey hopes to be able to visit his son in Iraq if he can.

Specialist Horn's dream is to earn a bachelor's degree and become an officer.

The Lammey's youngest, Akiano, plays baseball and soccer and one day want to become a Army sniper.

"He is always willing to help around the house and helps my wife do anything," said Sergeant Lammey.

Despite all the challenges that have been presented to Lammey Family, Sergeant Lammey would not change anything.

"Our life has been full of trials and errors, but I wouldn't replace it with anyone else's," he said. "To Mikki, it is your love and courage that has been the foundation of our marriage. You love without regret, you love without pause and you love unconditionally. It is your love that keeps me going day after day."

"To my boys, you have given me love and support for which there is no replacement," he continued. "You will forever be the bright spot of my life for which I will forever cherish."

When Sergeant Lammey returns, he plans to take his family on a vacation.

(Editor's note: This is the second part of a two-part story.)