Pryor Family's Two Soldier Sons

Thursday, August 17th 2006, 6:06 am

By: News On 6

Jonhathan and Colt Kelly are soldier sons and second chances brothers from Green Country. The News On 6â€™s Craig Day reports that these two soldiers are missed dearly on the homefront.

At the Kelly's home in Pryor, the pride they have in their soldier sons can easily be seen. Both Johnathan and Colt are in the Army; Johnathan in Iraq and Colt arriving within 30 days.

"We don't say goodbye. When we talk we don't say goodbye,â€ said mother Cindi Kelly. â€œWe say later, because goodbye to me is forever."

On the day Colt finished basic training, Johnathan started it. Both called during this time; one by phone from Fort Hood and the other by webcam from Iraq.

The story isnâ€™t limited to brothers being away from home and in harm's way: it's also a tale of one turning his life around by serving his country.

The Kelly's say their son Johnathan would be the first to tell you he was going down the wrong path. Drugs, trouble with the law, and a not-so-bright future. He admired his younger brother's decision to join the Army, so Johnathan decided to follow in his brotherâ€™s footsteps.

"Grown up ain't the word for it,â€ said father Kim Kelly. â€œHe's changed from a smart mouthed kid, punk to a man who has respect for you, me and other people."

Although there is double the worry and concern, there is also twice the pride. There will be double the joy and Thanksgiving when their sons come home.

â€œNow you want your sons to know you're very proud of both of them?â€ asked News On 6 anchor Craig Day. â€œYeah. I really am. Yes I am," responded Kim Kelly.

"I know they both will come home," stated Cindi Kelly.