To the men and women who have donned the uniform with honor, I cannot express my deepest thanks and gratitude for the service you have given your nation. Without your efforts, the world all Americans know as their own homeland would not be as it is. Though at times the world seems to pit itself against us, even those we protect at home, it is because of the service behind me, the service you gave and give, that I proudly wear my ABU's.

To the men and women who stand behind and support the troops, words are largely inefficient to convey what thanks you are due. It is you who truly motivates the soldiers of our nation, and it is done in the simplest ways. No matter the circumstances, a, "Thank you for you service," no matter how minuscule it may seem, truly extends miles beyond your expectations. So, thank you. Thank you for your support, thank you for those little thank you's and handshakes in the grocery isles, and thank you making it worth every second to wear this uniform.

To those who have been lost in the line of duty, you are missed, honored and will never be forgotten. Your sacrifice shall never know an equal as to lay your life aside for the safety of others and for that of our nation. To Nickolai, Jason, Thomas, Zeke, Emanuel and Zipp, I miss you each and every day, but please know that while gone, your memories and service inspire me and continue to inspire others.

God bless America, and God bless the soldiers who defend it.