For My Sister

You walked into the shooting range with dad, many years ago from today, a small girl taking on the big guns, never backing down in the fray. When you grew a little older, Customs & Border Protection became your thing, doing push-ups on concrete, even when your hands would sting. Somewhere along the line, you became an EMT. Saving lives was only the start of what the future would soon bring. In fire school you learned to never leave a man behind, test after test you kept fighting with pride. When all was said and done, the family was proud, but somehow you still had dreams and goals that had not been heard aloud.To be a United States Marine was what you said you would do, taking orders and shooting guns after you finished high school. From when you left for training until you stood proud on graduation day, I saw a transformation; I saw your fears fade away. I watched you march and run on soil that had a past, a family of Marines with enough courage to make freedom last. No matter how close or far to that soil you may stand, remember what you pledged to this country while holding up your right hand. From South Carolina, to Missouri, to Jersey, to Japan, know nothing can break a person who truly believes they can. You can be confident; you can live your dream. Know each and every day I am thankful for you, my sister, a United States Marine.