Dear Newest Army Member.

The minute you told me you were thinking about going into the army my stomach sank. All of our high school memories came flooding back into my mind. Since the day I first met you sophomore year, I knew we would be friends. Latin class gave me one of my greatest friends.

We have had so many laughs together, fights, snapstreaks, sassy Instagram comments, funny text messages, you copying my Latin homework, late night trips to get ice cream, playing lacrosse in the park, walking around downtown and in your neighborhood, and most importantly I stuck by your side during your interesting relationships. After high school, we went our separate ways, but I still talk to you almost every day. You are one of the few people I still talk to from high school.

As proud as I am of you for going into the army, I am also scared and sad. I am scared for what the future holds for you in your new profession. I am sad that during your training we will virtually have no communication besides letters even though Fort Jackson is in very close proximity to my campus. I am so proud that you have chosen to fight bravely for your country. It is people like you that make this world safer for us to live in. You have changed so much even since June. You have become mature, motivated, strong, and more muscular might I add. We are all so proud to know you.

These next few weeks are going to be some of the hardest times you will ever endure. With your dedication to training and studying your materials, I know you will be outstanding. Keep your head up these next few weeks. Look for my letters in the mail and hopefully you will even write back a few times. Christmas cannot come soon enough because I will feel relief when I know you are back safely in our hometown. I look forward to seeing you again and I am so proud of who you have become. Thank you for fighting for our country.

Love,

Your Friend