Hey big brother,

First off, I just want to say I miss you dearly.

Second, I want to let you know how proud I am to be your younger sister; looking up to you is an honor in its own.

You might not think you have done anything for me to be proud of, but you couldn’t be more wrong. I’m proud of you for deciding to leave and to follow your dreams; you’ve wanted to be a soldier ever since you were little. And for sacrificing everything for the people that you love. I am so happy and proud of everything that you’ve accomplished.

We may fight 90 percentof the time that you’re home, but just know it’s all out of love.

Not only have you protected me along the way but you have also protected everyone in the United States.

Growing up with someone who has been in the military, over seas and defending our country can be pretty stressful, never mind what’s going on in your head.

But, needless to say, I just want to thank you.

Thank you for picking on me every single day since I was born and showing me how to be tough since ’95. Without you getting on my nerves my entire childhood (and still to this day) I wouldn’t be as strong as I am today. I guess you’d never thought I’d say this but, thank you for always being a jerk.

Thank you for always having my back no matter what the situation, even if it includes telling off a psycho ex from millions of miles away. You make it known that wherever I am out in this crazy world; you will be there to protect me.

Thank you for your unconditional love even though you don’t always show it.

Thank you for keeping our entire family and me safe.

And most importantly thank you for being you.

You are the most straightforward, blunt, kind, loving person I have ever met; someone who I can always count on for an honest answer. Sometimes it’s hard to live up to the expectations mom and dad have, because you set them, but I also don’t mind it because no one could have set them higher.

It’s pretty hard to live up to someone that’s saving the world.

It’s been quite awhile since you’ve been home, or even on American soil at that fact. So please, come home soon and safe.

Much love,

Your younger sister

(PS I know mom is definitely crying by now)