Dear Haley Kathryn Dillon (Lance Corporal Dillon),
I want to first start out by expressing how extremely proud I am of you. You have always been so inspiring and adventurous. It didn't surprise me much at all that you chose to become a Marine. Of all people, you would be the one to be brave enough to go through with it and reach your goal. I will be honest though. I had mixed emotions when you swore in. One part of me was so proud and happy for you, and the other part of me was almost nervous, scared, and sad. I was proud and happy for you because I knew that this was what you wanted to do with your life. I was nervous, scared, and sad because I knew I wouldn't get to speak to you as often, see you as often, and knew you would face many trials and challenges throughout your journey as a Marine. It didn't hit me that you were leaving until we were states away from each other both graduating from high school and knowing our next paths in life. I had been accepted to EKU and was preparing for my first college semester, and you were preparing for boot camp. I know that boot camp was a challenge for you, as it was for me and your family. We missed you so much and would count down the days til you could come home. Days, weeks, and months were easier to get through all thanks to the letters written back and forth. I only regret that I didn't write you as often as I should have.
I also want to express how thankful I am for you. You have been one of my dearest, closest friends. I'm thankful for meeting you in our 6th grade geography class. The rest is history. I'm thankful for the countless sleepovers, the countless trips to Knoxville, and Corbin, and all the special memories that have been made over the years. You're one of the strongest women I know, even though you claim I'm one of the strongest women you know.
Not to mention, I'm so thankful for each Skype call we are able to have. It's much better to see you face-to-face than just text messages.
You have given me a whole new meaning to the importance of supporting and praying for our troops. At first, I felt it was just my civic duty. Now I have a better picture of what troops have to go through regardless of being stationed in the U.S. or overseas. I'll never forget traveling to see you in Knoxville and you showing me your dry, blistered feet. I also remember going to Wal-Mart with you and your mom to find all the items you had to pack to take to North Carolina. I'm thankful for all the sacrifices you have made to continue to be a Marine. I'm also thankful for all the sacrifices all of our troops make each day.
I also want you to know how much I truly miss you. I cannot wait to possibly be able to see you this summer. I love you so much. Thank you for serving our country, and thank you for always being like a sister to me.
