Dear, Father Figure, Staff Sergeant, Rowdy Randy.

Before we R.I.P. I need to wear my heart externally

I, grew up empty because my daddy wasn’t with me

True, walking blindly, I’d follow any male figure

 

You

Descended down at the right time.

Gave me guidance on how to follow through.

Showed me what the strength of men can do.

Breathe life, love your wife, be the light.

Gently touch a soul with the funny bone in the worst plight.

Defend the stars and stripes, and fight the good fight.

 

It’s supernatural the way you stand firm, and not cower.

An epitome of power, and a bright flame in the darkest hours.

How you lead is beyond belief, wielding the master key,

And unlocking the best in others with empathy.

And sharing wisdom of the best creed

The good deeds, and to take heed.

And rebuking with doctrine as sound truth.

And stayed righteous when it was only you.

Even in times when people didn’t like you.

 

Life is so busy in your forties,

But you took time to intervene.

Took me under your wings.

To the King, you gave glory

Because our pages were the same story.

 

If you’re reading this, then we’ve said our goodbyes.

Tear-stained faces in war, guess that’s why they call them battle cries.

But know I understand our legacy, my responsibility.

To build men in truth and strength is the priority.

More than a game, a call of duty

To free those imprisoned by choking ties and enslaving lies,

And to align with Christ and keep the Devil at the shoreline.

 

I’ll always reminisce about the nights we prayed,

About the days you made me brave,

And how I never gave a second thought about your broken halo

Because it still glowed.

Now the light’s inside of me. Ready to lead.

So I thank you for your masculinity you’ve bestowed.

Signed, Lieutenant. Lima. Yankee.