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Jed Boal Reporting For many Americans, independence takes on greater importance when our troops are at war.
This week, one family in Idaho is weighing the cost of freedom.
The Abrams clan of Preston, ID is a formidable force. They number more than 80, spanning four generations as they gather at Bear Lake for a reunion.
Eight young men are absent this year, but their presence is surely felt.
June Cottle, Soldiers' Grandmother: “Any time they leave it makes you nervous, but they're prepared."
June Abrams Cottle is the matriarch and says patriotism is in their blood.
Independence Day weekend eight of her grandsons shipped out for training in Texas and eventually, the conflict in Iraq.
Tony Abrams, Soldiers' Father: "We have a lot of faith they're doing what they're supposed to do right now."
The Idaho National Guardsmen are members of the 1st Battalion of the 148th Field Artillery. The cousins range in age from 18 to 25 -- Dallas Abrams, Russell Madsen, Bracken Abrams, Tyson Abrams, Tyler King, Shawn Abrams, Ryan Abrams, and Jared Abrams.
Three of the soldiers are brothers and sons of Tony Abrams.
Tony Abrams: “I'm nervous, but trust they'll be protected and come back home."
They followed the footsteps of their uncle, Major John Abrams, and all are Eagle Scouts.
Every member of the Abrams family feels the pride and the sacrifice.
Debra Abrams, Soldier's Mother: ”It makes you more aware and appreciate the freedom, they fought for us."
There will be tough emotional times for the family with these members gone. They all look forward to doing this reunion again when everyone is home where they belong.
When asked about the family reunion when the cousins all come home, one mother said there would be a mean football game.
