This is a letter Honoring the men and women who died while serving in the U.S. military.
Every year, I hear more about you. Those who call you their brother-in-arms speak of your bravery. Although I sense their sadness at your absence, I know they feel blessed to have met someone like you. Some may wonder why it was you and not them who were chosen to be with God, as they were right beside you.
Many of your brothers are thinking of you today. Perhaps most of them won’t talk about it openly, but I have learned to listen to the silent cries of those who remember you. I can assure you that you are remembered more than ever imagined.
You are present in every deployment story. I recall the countless days you stayed awake for 72 hours or more and the Christmas tree you made from ammunition, explosives, a camo net, and whatever else you could find. I also heard about the time you thought everything was lost, only to be saved by an airstrike that came to the rescue of you and your soldiers.
I’ve heard about your sense of duty and the fears you faced during the invasion of Normandy, as well as the brutal living conditions you endured during the Vietnam War. Despite everything, you did your best and sacrificed everything for America and for us.
Although I never met you, I feel a connection because of the stories I’ve heard about you. The people who fought, laughed, and cried alongside you have ensured that your memory will never be forgotten.
God bless you.