Attention on Deck!

10 years ago today, my daughter, Raquel, penned this fine example of what I, and many that have come before and after us, have written, scrawled in the dark, in pencil, on stationery bought at the recruit exchange. In an uncertain time in life, where the end of youth collides with an institution tasked to build men and women of character, most of us reach out to those we believe closest to us, possibly hoping to lessen the blow of such a rapid and forced change to our habits and lifestyle.

Although I was initially shocked at her choice to join the Navy (we are largely an Army family), she has perservered, and now sits atop a mountain of accomplishment, to include getting married, raising two beautiful sons, completing a masters, and becoming a homeowner, all things that I am baffled by with her, seemingly, innate and compelling ability to manage.

I was and still am deeply humbled that she took the time to share her fears and experiences with me in that moment. So much so that I have kept it framed in my office to remind me of what it looks like to face life head-on, for a decade.

Sadly, for the life of me, I can′t remember if I responded to the letter, but I treasure the messenger and the message. Happy Veteran′s Day, a little early, I know, but a sentiment well-deserved, from a Dad that couldn′t ask for more. Love you!