Most of us have siblings. They are the ones our parents always seem to love more and the ones who ALWAYS get more attention. But as we grow up, they slowly turn into our friends rather than our forced living mate.

My brother and I are two years apart. We fight, we bicker and we eat the other's food. Growing up this close in age really didn't help our relationship at first. However, as soon as we both entered high school, we changed. We suddenly openly and publicly had each other's back.

There is nothing I wouldn't do for my brother. He is my best friend. He makes mistakes. He makes a lot of them, but there is no other person I trust more than him. He's always been shy but loud, proper but sarcastic, and brotherly but friendly.

As my brother now prepares for his active duty in the U.S. Marines, I do realize how bittersweet time really is, how fragile our hearts are and especially, how precious the moments you make will eventually be. Moments turn into memories — and memories can last a lifetime when a person can no longer fill the slot.

For those who do not know, the U.S. Marines is pretty rigorous and can take a toll on people, as can any military position. I believe those who pursue a career in serving our country are making the ultimate sacrifice for us, as citizens, to live comfortably and safely in our homes. They put their lives on the line and carry our freedom on their backs as they fight to hold their own selves up.

My brother is an amazing man. He has always been my supporter, even when I didn't know it. He talked to my boyfriends and became their friend. He believes in freedom and equality and friendship. He is a loving and faithful man to his family, friends and all who he serves. He is truly a model person.

So, I will leave him with this:

My brother, I love you. You have sacrificed far more than you could ever know for me and a lifelong thank you will never be enough. Remember, it is okay to be scared and it is okay to admit fear. Remember you are human, and remember your sanity and emotional well-being is just as important. Remember I am here for you when you come home. Remember that not every holiday can be spent at home for you, but every holiday you are not here, you will be on our minds and in our hearts. Remember that you have someone to come home to. Remember what you are fighting for. Remember who you are. Remember, you are not war and you are not your mistakes.

Be safe.

I love you, always.