'Grandpa's' next step another footprint in lives of loved ones

Katie Huffman, a freshman at the University of Illinois from Galva, is writing letters from college which are being published once a month in the Galva News. For more about Arnie Jacobs, the subject of this week’s letter, see the story on Page 1 of the Jan. 28 Galva News.

Jan. 19, 2010 - Just looking at the date it does not pose any importance to anyone. It’s not a birthday of mine or an anniversary.

It is, however, a day that will forever touch the hearts in our community along with many other people around the world. A veteran’s dream came true on that Tuesday.

Arnie Jacobs, my (adoptive) grandfather, is officially a citizen of the United States after all this time.

I had tears of joy upon hearing the words of citizenship for him. I want to thank everyone for all the drive and work that has been done to make this dream come true for him. It is truly a proud moment for us all as we can look and say, “We did it!”

It is an amazing feeling to know that something like this is possible for each and every one of us.

One can only hope that this is a permanent footprint on the heart of our nation that will bring about good and hope to all veterans alike. I know it is a permanent footprint on my heart, but, then again, "Grandpa" himself is a footprint on all of us who know him.

For the rest of Katie Huffman's letter, see the Jan. 28 Galva News.