Dear Beloved and Fallen,

Words can not express the wellspring of emotions that come to mind as I remember your sacrifices. There were many. Throughout time, there have been men and women like you, who have sacrificed everything that I might be here today. I will never forget you. My eyes shed tears. My tears fall in a country that is free.

Thank you.

Remembering back, I recall how you willingly fought for people who hated you. Still, you stood and fought for their freedom. You helped to stop genocide and free others from the grips of tyranny. You jumped, swam, flew and ran towards a cause bigger than life. Your bravery amazes me. You accomplished things that only the deepest of sacrifices could accomplish. Freedom means something to you, does it not? It always has, and today… We are still free.

Thank you.

Missional minded you drew up and executed battle plans despite the political infighting that occurs at home. You understand, at times, we seem divided, but you never let it show. To you freedom matters enough to carry on. To me, freedom also matters that much.

Thank you.

War is hell. I am never thankful for it. Who is? Yet, in you, the courage to face hell – and charge! You charged for a call greater than yourself. A charge of death that brings life. I wish I could adequately tell you how humbled and thankful I am. There are not the words to convey that. Only my tears of gratitude as I type you this letter.

Thank you.

Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends.” (John 15:13 ESV)

Truly,

Mark, A Free Man.