Dear Tyler.

Dear Tyler,

I know you're being deployed soon, sometime in June. It's hard to see you go so soon. Our childhood memories, ones I hope to never forget. If I do, I'll just take a guess. We were always gamblers, poker nights into fist fights. Honestly, you're like a brother to me. Still hard to believe, ten long years and we have been through it all. Short comings and downfalls. So many issues, but we stayed true. It's not just myself though, TJ and Ian, Matt and Dan. Know you will be missed. I hope you stay safe, don’t stray away. I hope to be teaching in Reno. I hope high school. Tomorrow might be near, but the future is still unclear. I'm not sure of how much to say. Sometime in June is going to be your last day. I don’t want these memories to fade. The guys and I will still stay together. Find us at the pool hall at Q's. Maybe we'll try something new? Not sure of the direction, but I can only hope we find our destination.

Dear Tyler,

I know you've been deployed at noon, it's now June. Your mom was with me, after we saw you leave. She is so proud of you, your dad too. Justin and I were thinking about what to do. We got the guys together later that afternoon. We made dinner at your house. Everyone came over, it was like a madhouse. Our family and friends all arrived. Thing is, none of us payed a dime. Everyone brought food and your mom had a little too much wine. Your dad, is still the same funny guy. Everyone was hanging out, laughing and smiling. To be truthful to you, we all deeply miss you. We worry a lot but we have our best thoughts. I know you all too well Tyler, and I'll be here when you come back in June.

Dear Tyler,

      I hear you're coming home soon, but not as intended too. The worst thoughts cross my mind, scare me sometimes. Come home penny less and without a dime. Nothing left but a lack in pride. I don’t want you to fall behind, build up from your prime. The worst though, is seeing you come home with you in a coffin. This though isn't as often, nevertheless; it’s a terrible estimated guess. I didn’t want you to go, but your mind is thicker stone. I guess I'll never know. This last paragraph has not taken its course, but it will come in time. All things do. When you do come back, you're not alone. We can figure you out on where to go. I can take you to the university, and find out what you want to do, but those aren't my shoes. You came to my aid when I was young, not like I had forgotten. You kept me from becoming rotten. I can finally pay you back, when you come back home next June.