Re: Memorial Day, 2008

Will keep you informed, yes. 

What can you do to help?  I know this sounds weak and hoakie, but simply existing, as a Marine, is the best thing.  That there are people out there who's shoulders he must stand on means one day he will be able to speak those sacred words to.  Existing is by far the superior thing.   I appreciate your response. 

The subtext in this was he acquired a severe record as a juvenile.  I kept grinding away at a lot of things with him, esteem, physical reqs, a very negative youth, the main thing being there is no such thing as never.  He saw his grandfather face impossible odds militarily, saw me work through impossible circumstances (my wife, medically, terrifically long story), and finding the word 'quit' disgraceful.  It's in the genes.  No recruiter would work with him until finally, one did.  He came from about as dark a place as one could come, kept his nose to the wall when everyone said 'no'.  So, he was commissioned a couple weeks ago.  No is not ever no in this family.  

As he's been told, now the real work begins.

Your response is very appreciated.  I didn't thank you for your service.  Thank you.  Not said lightly.

regards, ck