­Before I knew it, I was watching a compilation of military homecoming videos and the emotions were starting to kick in. I saw husbands and wives being reunited after lengthy deployments and children getting surprise visits from their greatly missed service members, all while Tim McGraw’s “If You’re Reading This” played in the background. At the end of the video, a single phrase ran across the black screen: "Land of the free because of the brave."

To the men and women who so selflessly pledge their lives to our country, we thank you. Thank you for your dedication and commitment. For fighting for our freedoms so we have the chance to chase our dreams. Day in and day out, you protect people you have never met. Your courage is unrivaled. And because of your willingness and the willingness of those who have given their lives, I am able to exercise my right of freedom of speech and write this letter. Some heroes wear capes, but a special kind of hero wears dog tags.

To the family members of these heroes, you stand behind our troops as their strong support system. Thank you for giving up time with your loved ones so others don’t have to and for going where duty calls when you are stationed somewhere new. Thank you for having a love that is deployment-strong and for patiently waiting for homecomings. Your strength and courage wave as proudly as our flying flag. Thank you for holding down the fort while your spouse is halfway across the world. When our country was scared and in need, you stood as a pillar of strength. Your countless letters and care packages bring little pieces of home to the far corners of the world where freedom is being protected.

To our heroes who are MIA, you are not forgotten. We will continue to mourn your absence until we are able to deliver closure and justice for you and your families. Your sacrifice, integrity and commitment will leave a legacy that lasts longer than any war. Thank you for the strength you have shown while protecting our nation.

To our fallen brothers and sisters in arms, we salute you. May our respect for you ring louder than the shots of your 21-gun salute. Thank you for paying the ultimate price and giving your life to the nation we are lucky to call home. You are the epitome of courage. You have shown the world what true love for another life means. You have made Lady Liberty proud, and you have taught us that freedom isn’t free.

We are the land of the free because of the brave.