As US citizens, we do get to experience certain freedoms which are made possible thanks to the protection and sacrifices of our men and women in uniform. One teenager, from Rochelle Illinois, has found a unique way of remembering those who served, who are no longer with us.

Aubrey Headon is a student who attends Rochelle Township High School. One day by chance, she became acquainted with Gretchen Catherwood, the Gold Star mom of a fallen Marine in the 3rd Battalion, 5th Marine Regimen. Gretchen is the founder of the Darkhorse Lodge, an organization dedicated to helping combat veterans – an issue that is very close to Aubrey’s heart.

Aubrey was greatly inspired by Gretchen and her mission, that she too, wanted to find a way to honor those who’ve died in Afghanistan, fighting for our country.

Aubrey told Yahoo Lifestyle, “I don’t want them to fade into nothing.”

Aubrey came to the conclusion that the best opportunity for her to showcase her respect for the fallen, was at her senior prom. The teen spent the following two years, ambitiously working on an original design for her prom dress. It was a navy blue gown, resembling the American flag, completed by red and white ribbons and a blue-starred halter-top.

But the details are in the red and white ribbons hanging from the skirt of her dress – they each contain a name of the members of the 3rd Battalion.

However, if you look closely, there is a single black ribbon that has the name, “Tyler Smith.” Tyler was a member of the Illinois Army National Guard, who reportedly passed away in a drowning. He was also a graduate of Aubrey’s high school.

Aubrey’s patriotic prom dress was a stunning sight, and it’s no wonder it has gone viral on social media.