Some people love their siblings to death, and others cannot stand them. My big brother is my absolute best friend. He has literally known me since I was born. There are many reasons why someone would not like or love their sibling, but there are so many more reasons why I love mine.

When I was little, I remember always wanting to play games with my brother. We are six years apart so there was always that age gap. I used to get so mad at him when he would rather go outside and play basketball with his friends instead of do something with me. Now that I am older I think it was pretty silly, but back then I was just a little girl who wanted to spend some time with her big brother. In my opinion, we were not the closest growing up. We have definitely grown closer over time and after he joined the military.

When my brother decided to join the Air Force, I was a little sad because I knew he would have to leave. When he went to Basic Military Training, I cried for the first time about my brother. This is when I realized that I needed him and loved him with my whole heart. This is when I realized that he is my best friend. I wrote letters to him as much as I could. I still have one that he wrote to our parents and me. My brother is not only my best friend but he is also an inspiration. When I was making my schedule for my freshman year of high school, I told my guidance counselor to put me in the military class. At the time I had no idea that the class was called Junior ROTC. It was one of the best decisions I have ever made. He inspired me to want to join the military.

I am hoping that he is reading this right now. Chances are that he saw me post it on Facebook or I sent him the link. Either way, if you are reading this, grab some tissues because I am going to get a little sentimental (in a good way).

I love you. I feel like I don't tell you that enough. You have always been there for me. You always hold me when I cry and tell me everything will be okay. I feel like I can tell you anything, and you always let me know that I can--even though I usually end up telling your wife. Thank you for being such a great person and an even better brother.

Growing up, I always said I wanted a sister. You finally gave me one when you got married. I did not know how to feel when you started dating her because I was afraid my brother would get taken away from me. I am glad that things happened the way they did.

I am so proud of you and everything you have accomplished. You have always pushed me to try harder, especially in school. I always wanted to get straight A's just like you. Congratulations on graduating tech school for the second time. I cannot wait to see you. I miss you oh so much. I love you.