Diana Mankin Phelps

A Mother's Side of War Diana Mankin Phelps

Mothers and sons share a special bond. As you read this story about the bond between this mother and her marine son, the depth of that bond will be as clear as Aaron's crystal blue eyes. Those eyes, which were the only part of her sons face left untouched by the blast from a roadside bomb, were how Diana's heart stayed focused on what needed to be done. He was only in Iraq ten weeks when Marine combat correspondent Cpl. Aaron Mankin was severely injured by one of the largest roadside bombs to date. His injuries were life-threatening, but, Aaron chose not just to survive, he chose to live the best life he could for his family. It has always been about family when it comes to Aaron. During an interview Diana was asked about what she was most proud of when it came to Aaron. His perseverance in continuing to under go surgery after surgery to rebuild his scared face, arms, and hands, were at the top of her list, but, her answer surprised them all. Diana slowly raised her head and looked into the eyes of the lady asking the question. Tears glistening as she replied, "His spirit." She continued to try and explain the heart of her hero son. "All the surgeries, the pain...the weeks of recovery...then the cycle begins again...are not something that he endures for his own benefit. Aaron continues to do what the doctors ask of him for the benefit of those warriors who are still fighting, and will be in need of these new techniques and depth of care sooner than later. He continues so his children won't be ashamed of the way he looks, of the scars on his face or his inability to perform a simple act, such as assembling a wagon or bike on Christmas Eve. Yes, it's his spirit that I am most proud of," Diana finished. From the first page to the last, you will see that bond between this mother and son, you will feel an intimate connection to them both, you will come to understand the heart of her hero son, and you will be touched by the fortitude they both show, as this mom openly shares herself, her marine, and those who became family along their journey of recovery.