How the world you knew has changed in just 2 short years, Matt. You'd be so proud of Randi and those three beautiful little girls. They're all soldiers, too, marching on bravely without a husband and daddy. You've gained a stepdad who could not be more proud of you or more supportive of me and a stepsister who may yet follow in your footsteps. You would never believe the rippling impact you had in your too-short life. Not a day goes by without thoughts of you, talk of you, memories of you, and always, always pride in you. I miss laughing with you, seeing you smile and listening to you talk about the future you weren't destined to have. I saw a bumper sticker on another Gold Star car, and it really struck me. It said simply, "It can't always be someone else's son." I accept that. I don't like it, but I accept it and trust that God knew what He was doing, even though we can't understand. Your friends, your brothers-in-arms who still keep tabs on us (one of whom just named his first-born son after you), your former teachers and classmates, our friends and neighbors, and even total strangers ... they hold you in great regard -- you and your fellow fallen. People appreciate it so much more than you know. I've got a lot of OIF veterans in my classes this fall (using their GI benefits) and they invariably thank me for your life and your sacrifice, usually with a tear in their eyes or a tremor in their voice. Bet you never would have believed it, but it's true. Yes, you are that man, my son. You are the hero you hoped you'd never have to be. God keep you safe in His arms until I can get there to do it myself one day. All our love, forever and ever, Mom and Tim
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