I know you're apprehensive. I know you say no one ever tells you they are proud of you and you feel like all that you're doing is for nothing. Well, I'm proud of you and I support you. What you're doing isn't for nothing; it's for everyone and everything all around the world. You're following in the footsteps of many before you and doing something that many men and women don't have the courage to do. A lot of people talk of serving but don't do it because they are scared. I know you're scared as well, but you're going to be stronger in the end. You have the ability to do well in boot camp and you know that, deep down inside. If you didn't, then you wouldn't dream of being on the front line. You survived a year of ROTC and the 4 a.m. physical training sessions. You’re dedicated, and that right there will take you far. You can do this and you'll do great. Before you know it boot camp will be over and you'll be risking your life for the safety and happiness of others. That right there sounds terrifying but you're doing an amazing thing.

You've said before that there are no bright sides to serving. Well here are a couple; you're protecting and serving others, two things you enjoy, and you get to travel all around the world. You may come from a small town but being active in the military will broaden your horizons further than you could ever believe. When it comes to serving, Gandhi’s quote rings true, "live as if you were to die tomorrow learn as if you were to live forever." You never know what the next day is going to have in store. You're one of those people who likes to have their whole life planned out and when it comes to serving, you can't. Just something to remember, you may not think you have a support system, but you do. You think no one is going to worry about you and that they'll forget about you after you join the military. Sorry to break it to you, but that couldn't be further from the truth. Your family for one, is a whole support system and the friends you made in college are always going to stand by you. I know I will. I'm going to miss you while you're gone and of course I'm going to worry about you, but again, you're doing something phenomenal and you're reaching your goal. Don't let anything stop you.

Not to mention there are non-profit organizations such as, The Daughters of the American Revolution and the USO that are all about supporting our military. People do care. DAR broke a world record just a couple weeks ago for the most letters written and sent to active military. Over 100,000 letters were sent. People care, they really do, and these ladies are a prime example. One of these days you’re going to be active and I’m sure you’ll receive letters of your own. So don’t think that once you leave you’re never coming back because no one wants you to, you'll be back and you'll be loved. The USO takes time to go to airports and to welcome servicemen back home. There are even elementary schools that send letters to those serving as well as care packages. You aren’t going to be forgotten, so don’t think that. America never forgets those who put their lives on the line. From time to time people will see you and thank you for your service. I’ve seen you go to restaurants and see someone who has served at some point or is currently serving and walk up and thank them. In the future just think someone else is going to be showing their gratitude toward you.

My uncle served with pride and there were times we worried about him, not knowing where he was or if he was safe, but we never forgot about him. He isn't currently active but he served a full career. He was always in our hearts and you will be no exception.

You mean something, you’re important. You’re brave, strong and determined. You’ve got this. Yes, your life will change upon entering the military but no one said it’ll be for the worse. You’re loved and supported; you won’t be forgotten.

Best of Luck and you can do this! I’m proud of you

We Salute You

P.S. I'll leave a green light on the porch until you get home.