Coming from small-town Nebraska, the size of your graduating class can vary in size from neighboring towns having over 200 kids to yours only having 20. That’s right, the Class of 2017 in my small town was 20 and I can tell you where the other 19 are right now. 15 of them are attending college and universities just like I am. One is in the workforce. I know what you're thinking… “That’s only 17 and I know she said she went to a small school but not THAT small of a school.” Well, you are correct. The other three of my wonderful classmates have decided to pursue something greater than college or the workforce.

They decided to devote themselves to serving our country.

All over the country hundreds of men and women who graduated in May and early June had not only had graduation parties celebrating their success of graduating high school but also had going-away parties for their family and friends to say goodbye before they leave for their respective branches of basic training. Whether they are going to Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, or National Guard, they are going away to serve. If you had or have anyone you are close to making the choice to join the armed forces you know it takes a certain kind of person to enlist. Three boys in my class have all decided to go into the Marines.

These boys are now men.

They have been great leaders in my school and community. They showed leadership and academic excellence during my seven years of attending school with them. They showed integrity, creativity, and brought humor to the classrooms, football fields, stages, basketball courts, and my personal life. Thank you for making the choice. Thank you for being strong. Thank you for all the mornings you woke up at the crack of dawn to go workout. Thank you for all the late night trips to Wal-mart after going to the movies. Thank you for all the Friday night football and basketball games, the Saturday bowling and speech meets. Thank you for not giving up on your dream. Thank you for bringing me joy during our high school years. Thank you for letting me have peace of mind knowing my home will always be protected. Thank you to all those have served and who are going to serve.

Now I ask something extremely special of you: please be safe. Please don’t forget that you have a people back home who are here for you. Please don’t give up on yourself. Please don’t forget who you are. Please remember that you ALWAYS have someone to send a letter to.