“We continually remember before our God and Father your work produced by faith, your labor prompted by love, and your endurance inspired by hope in our Lord Jesus Christ.”
-- 1 Thessalonians 1:3
Your mother and I can't find adequate expression of the pride we feel over your service, and that of your sister, Katelyn.
We are honored by strangers even, when they learn of your service. We display blue star banners on our vehicles, kitchen window, and lapels, and below the banner on my car I have two bumper stickers; "My Son Serves in the US Army" and "My Daughter Serves in the US Army". A few days ago on my drive to work the driver of a car in the fast lane to my left slowed down to match my speed and laid on the horn. I looked over to see an elderly man saluting me. He held it until I returned the salute, and then he sped on past. His license plate read 'USN VET'. You stand at the end of a long line of honorable men and women, Americans and even aliens, who since June 14, 1775 have served honorably in the United States armed forces. They have sacrificed careers, blood, sweat, tears, lonliness, separation, and even their lives because they were called to serve and did their duty in answering that call.
When you were baptized you began your vocation as a Christian. Through these years, God has blessed you with unique, special gifts and interests that have led you to service in the Army. Today it is our privilege to affirm you as you represent our country. Let your Christian light shine wherever your military service may take you. Our ascended Lord assures you, “Lo, I am with you always.” With His forgiveness and the constant presence of His Spirit, with all His grace and fatherly care, He is with you, Nate. We commend you and your wife, Katie, to His gracious care and pledge to you and Katie our prayers and continued spiritual support.
Thank you. We love you.
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