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Bittersweet Christmas ‘Gift Of A Lifetime’ For Fallen Marine Travis Nelson’s Mom
December 23, 2019
It was a gift that meant the world to a Gold Star mom.
Beckie Nelson’s son, Travis Nelson, was shot and killed while conducting combat operations in in Helmand province, Afghanistan, on August 18, 2011.
Last week, she was sitting at her desk at work when a UPS package arrived.
“Not recognizing the return label I opened the package,” Beckie Nelson said, “…at my desk thinking it was another Etsy Christmas gift that I just forgot about.”
But it wasn’t just another gift. It was the hat, the Marine cover, her son had last worn over eight years ago. It was a gift that immediately brought back a flood of emotions and memories.
“One of Travs senior Marines contacted me a while back and told me he had something of ‘Nelsons’ that he wanted me to have….Truly a ‘gift’ that had my heart spinning and the tears overflowing. Eight years later and I immediately saw my handsome eighteen year old son smiling that unforgettable smile right before me! More than okay, the most memorable, bittersweet gift of a lifetime,” she said.
Travis Nelson grew up in Bratt, where the local park bears his name. He attended Bratt Elementary and Ernest Ward Middle School.
Photos for NorthEscambia.com, click to enlarge.
Comments
15 Responses to “Bittersweet Christmas ‘Gift Of A Lifetime’ For Fallen Marine Travis Nelson’s Mom”
Salute
Becky, how precious! Wow, it seems like yesterday the community was pouring out their support, bikers passing out waters at his service, and Scott by your side. You are the strongest lady I know and even though this remembrance is difficult please Find peace that God never leaves or forsake us.. You and Anna are in our prayers. Much love!
when i had the sunday school class travis,brett, austin and quite a few more after sunday school lesson and prayers we were talking about what we wanted for christmas i told them i wanted a bicycle well next sunday after class everyone was talking about what they got they ask me if i got my bicycle i said yes but it was a 10 speed and told them that is not what i wanted the boys said well mrs shirley why didn’t you just say you wanted a plan old fashion one. those kids made my day every sunday the prayers they prayed was very touching god bless our military and first responders that protect us every day
My thoughts are with you………………
What a wonderful gift! God is continuing to cover you with His grace. Brought tears to our eyes as I read it to Jimmie. We love you!
As “Sam” said Semper Fi. Not only is it the Marine Corps belief but the mission for all current and former Marines. My prayers go out to the family of this young man who gave the ultimate sacrifice. Former Marine- class of 1956.
That Beautiful gift brought me to tears. I totally understand your emotions. I lost my youngest Son at the age of 27, A USMC Veteran. Brandon lost his Battle with PTSD on 9-09-14. There is nothing in this world that makes Us as Mothers happier than the memories We hold Dear to Our Hearts. I wish I had been in your office that Wonderful Day you were blessed with your Son’s Hat to give you a Big Hug. Always in Our Hearts ❤
To the Nelson Family……..May God through His Holy Spirit bless you with all comfort and peace that only He can give through Jesus Christ His Son.
This has made a warm fuzzy feeling in me….kind of like Travis sending her a special Christmas Gift this year….my heart goes out to the soldier that was a huge bittersweet blessing to a loving mother….
Praying for this mother and many others like her and her family. May the God of all comfort, Jesus Christ, be with you all!
What a wonderful gift! You are in my prayers, loosing a child is something you never get over.
During the hustle & bustle of the holiday season, May we remember the Nelson family and all the many families who either have loved ones who also have given the ultimate price for their country, those who have served for country or those who are away from home and serving our country now. God bless them all.
Let us never forget Marine Travis Nelson and those brave soldiers like him.
As a Mom of a Marine myself , I can only imagine the hurt and sadness you are feeling yet it comes with such pride and honor. God bless you and your family and God bless Travis for his service. Young people today have no idea the sacrifices our military make for our country and for them. And as their families we also sacrifice while longing to see them come home. It is one of the hardest things in the world to see your child give so much for the sake of our continued freedom once fought for by other veterans. A freedom that people in this country today truly take for granted.
My prayers are with you and I can only hope that peace will overflow during this time.
Semper Fi, mom.
God bless this mother. My heart goes out to her. Lost my son several years ago in a car wreck. It’s something you never get over.