Dear Mom and Dad

I know I haven’t written for awhile and you're probably worried sick about me. I’m sorry to have worried you but I wasn’t sure of what to do. I can’t be sure I’m still the same kid you watched pulling away on that bus. I’ve done things I never imagined and said things I’m not sure I mean. That’s the problem, I think I might have become someone you won't recognize. You have to understand, I’m not sure I have a choice anymore if I am to survive I’m proud to be an American and I know this country should be defended; I never knew how much it would take or if I'll ever be the same again People here tell me they want to be left alone, are we intruding over here? I may never know the truth but in the meantime I made a commitment; I have no intentions of disgracing our name or dishonor my country. Try and understand; it was you that told me to hold all life in reverence. You two don’t worry; the strength I got from you both will help me to stay well I’m going to have to end this pretty soon because I have to go out on patrol; I’ll write again when we get back but that might be a few days, but I hope not. Please give my love to all and tell them I can’t wait to see everyone again. Stay well because coming home to you is the only thing that keeps me going. God willing I’ll come out of this alright and a person you both can be proud of With love; From the sands of the eastern desert ( )