For the soldiers that are currently deployed overseas right now, this letter is for you.

Dear Soldier,

I am not going to begin with "I thank you for your service." You hear that all of the time through social media and your loved ones. But know I appreciate everything you have done for our country. Soldier, this may not appear to be personal. Yet, these following paragraphs may bring you back home.

How are you? Is everything alright over there? Let me know if you feel at ease or need to go get some sleep before your next mission. Let my words comfort you, for you are in a position that severs your access to the strong sense of security. You are on your own out there. Understand there are people standing in front of you, beside you and even behind you as well. So in a summation, you will never be alone.

Is it safe over there right now? Are you in combat? I am already shedding a tear with the thought of your answer crossing my mind. You have the heart of a lion and the bravery of one too. The country does not intend to put their welfare on your shoulders. However, it happens anyway and for that I am sorry. Know the government is doing everything they can to ensure your position and identity. Soon enough you will be coming home! I cannot imagine the amount of relief and excitement you are going to feel.

Thank you for being a role model for the upcoming generations. You may have made this choice under certain circumstances, but children do not know that. They will see you in uniform and look up to you. In fact, their eyes are in awe of you, when you walk in with your active uniform or your dress blues. You are one of the biggest icons in their life, whether it is easily seen or not. Some children may tell their parents that they want to be in the military when they grow up. Can you imagine that? You inspire children to that extent! On that behalf, they will thank you one day for being an aspiration. You really are their hero!

Your loved ones may be missing you a little more than usual today. They have mentally prepared for your departure, but they are not physically ready to handle it. Although your loved ones may not see you often prior to your deployment, going to another country, one possibly in combat, haunts their thoughts. I know the pain can be more evil than a devastating loss. Once you arrive back home, you will be embraced by everyone. For now, calling or video chatting them will provide your loved ones with a sense of confidence. It will also temporarily alleviate the worries and tears they may have already shed that day. Your family thanks one another for you getting through another day. It means one day closer until you're back in their arms.

What is the country like over there? Sandy? Windy? Tropical? People have told me it is defined as a whole new world. The extreme time jump, weather fluctuations and rotations classified themselves to be a lot of work to adjust to. For some, it may be a two hour time jump. Others experience an eight or even ten hour time difference. Either way, no matter what your job is, you still sacrifice your mentality and body just to survive in the new world. No one will understand the dedication you and other soldiers make unless they step in your shoes.

If you see someone I know, will you say hello to them for me? I have friends deployed globally and miss them terribly. They are brave, just like you! Can you let them know I will be there soon? I plan on enlisting as soon as I graduate from school. Do not worry, I know what I will be getting myself into. I wonder where they would send me to...

Thank you for everything you have done and what you are doing right now. Please don't hesitate to write to me, especially if you ever need anything. Soon enough, I will be fighting with you and be by your side.

Yours Truly,

Your future soldier