As I prepare myself for a journey to a country so very far away, I think of my wife, children and family, and all the things I would like to do and say.

One of the hardest things that a husband and father could ever do, Is to leave behind the ones that are so very close to you.

How can I ease the loss that they must feel within their very heart? How can I help them to understand the reasons we are apart?

I know they will miss me when I am away from their side,
So I pray that their sadness will be replaced with great love and pride.

I am an American soldier, a protector of freedom and of all that is right, It is my duty and my honour when this country calls me to fight.

I must honour my promise to my family to protect them from all that is bad, That is my duty, not only as a soldier, but also as a husband and a dad.

I will fight with my brothers and sisters with fierce American pride, We will restore this country’s faith, and honour those who have died.

Do not think I am not afraid of the terror I am about to face,
Or the thought of not returning home from such a horrific place.

Soon this war will be over and returning home you will see, Your husband, your dad and your son for all eternity.

So when people ask you where I am or what it is that I do,
Look them in the eye and proudly say, “He is an American soldier fighting for freedom; he is fighting for you.�?/FONT>