Military parents, family and friends everywhere can now breathe a sigh of relief: the war in Iraq is over.

Nearly nine years after U.S. troops invaded the Iraq border with a mission to find what former President George W. Bush deemed as “weapons of mass destruction,” U.S. officials quietly called the war to an end — bringing many families together for a teary-eyed reunion and home for the holidays. Troops are coming home as we speak and President Barack Obama said final troops would pull out by the end of the year.

Many tears have been shed and hearts broken, these eight years. It had become commonplace to hear on the evening news that another solider had died in combat — adding to the already thousands of fatalities.

Much like what happened in Vietnam or World War II, the disheartening realism of a war has finally evolved into a picturesque vision of hope and happiness.

When you think about all the lives that were lost, you learn to appreciate the loved ones you have near. You can appreciate those veterans and fallen soldiers who fought for your personal freedoms — right to religion, freedom to assemble or to speak what you feel without reprimand or imprisonment.

As the daughter of two veterans and the sister of two current soldiers, I’m thankful for what they’ve done and I’m thankful for the opportunities that have been afforded me. I’m proud to be an American, living in the greatest country in the world.

Most of all, I’m thankful that the war is finally over. After the talks, the rumors and all the politics — the day has finally come. The idealistic notion of bringing the troops home has manifested. Thank you Mr. President for keeping your promise.