Mitch,

It seems like just yesterday when you and I were out fishing with all of the cousins and playing with out Tonka trucks in our backyard. Now, you are a 2016 high school graduate.

Through this crazy life of ours, we have been through so much, but nothing makes me more proud than your decision to join the Navy.

Your dreams will always be accomplished because of your determination.

People said you couldn't succeed at being a bull rider, you did. They said you wouldn't be able to learn to fly planes, you did. They even told you that you wouldn't be able to do all these crazy sports, like downhill biking, free-style skiing, and skateboarding, you did.

It doesn't matter what others think or may say because you will always be determined to do it.

I thought you would join me at the University of Wyoming and join ROTC and get a degree in whatever you had your mind set to, but now you will be in the Navy. It scares the hell out of me, but I know you will be just fine because of the person you are.

Grandpa Jerry would be so proud that you're following in his footsteps and we are all so incredibly proud of you.

As they announced your name out of three others that will be joining our Armed Forces, it gave me chills and put a few tears in my eyes. That whole gymnasium stood up and applauded you for your love of our country as you take this next step. We thank you for that commitment to serve our country.

You have achieved so much already and this was just a small chapter in your life. You're going to see amazing things and accomplish so much more.

We are always going to fight and I am always going to tell you my opinions on things, but thanks for putting up with me these past 18 years.

Thank you for all the memories so far, the laughs, the tears, and the crazy sibling fights. Just remember where you came from and the people that have supported you through the journey so far, because those will be the ones that never leave your side.

Good luck with the next chapter, I can't wait to see where it will take you.

Your sister,

Anna