Dear Dad,

I’m sorry. I’m sorry you were taken too soon from me and mom. From what I remember you were good, and kind. I didn’t get to see you much because of your dedication to the country, but I understand now. As a kid I would always wonder why you had to leave for such a long time. I never understood why mom would be crying on the couch when she hadn’t heard from you in a while. She was scared. She didn’t know if you were sleeping halfway across the world, or laying in a body bag. 

When you came home for the last time, it was different. Your usual smile looked grim, and forced. I know you were happy to be home, but your demons had a hold on you and they took over. Everything you’ve witnessed overseas had come back to haunt you. 

The day I saw you last you pulled me out of school to go to the carnival. You bought me a red balloon, and we went to the top of the Ferris Wheel. You then said, “Let go of the balloon.” I didn’t understand why, but I did as I was told. We watched it float away, and you said, “Just because you can’t see it, doesn’t mean it’s not there.” You pulled me close as we watched the city lights from the top.

We got home and you cooked spaghetti for us for the first time in months. Then you said, “I’m going to run to the store to get us some ice cream.” We waited, and waited for you to get back, but you never came home. Turns out you climbed over the rail of the big green bridge, a mile out of town, and let go. 

I understand why now, but I miss you everyday. I missed you at graduation, my eighteenth birthday party, and when I got accepted to college. I wish you were here to meet your grandchildren. Just know, they will understand their grandfather was a hero. You shielded us from all the bad in the world. You gave me freedom, liberty, and everything I could ever need. So thank you dad, thank you for loving your country enough to protect it. I miss you so much, and I'll see you in the sky someday. 

With love always, Your Daughter