This is lengthy when printed out but is a fast read because of the material.

Here is the link:

http://www.nytimes.com/2008/03/25/us/25dea...ref=todayspaper

I tested the link and it works.
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lenal

His death letter to his love was certainly touching:

R+R 2007

Hey baby. If you're reading this, then something has happen to me and I am sorry. I promised you I would come back to you, but I guess it was a promise I could not keep. You know I never believe in writing "death letters." I knew if I left one for my folks it would scare them. Then I met you. We were supposed to meet, darling. I needed someone to make me smile, someone that was an old romantic like I was. I was going through a very rough time in Iraq and I was startin to doubt my mental state. Then one day after a patrol, I go to my facebook and there you were...

I can't stop crying while I writing this letter, but I have to talk to you one last time, because maybe the last time I heard your voice I did not know it would be the last time I heard your voice....

I Love You. Go be happy, go raise a family. Teach your kids right from wrong, and have faith, darling. I think I knew I loved you even before I met. I love you, Katy. * Kiss * Goodbye

It simply reminds me of a poem that always touched me...and was highlighted in the lines of the movie "Gods and Generals", delivered by a Maine professor who became a hero of the Union at Little Round Top at Gettysburg, Colonel Joshua Chamberlain of the 20th Maine. It is a staple for everyman who soldiered up for a cause he had questions about...which are most causes...

To Lucasta, Going to the Wars

TELL me not, sweet, I am unkind
That from nunnery
Of thy chaste breast and quiet mind,
To war and arms I fly.

True, a new mistress now I chase,
The first foe in the field;
And with a stronger faith embrace
A sword, a horse, a shield.

Yet this inconstancy is such
As you too shall adore;
I could not love thee, dear, so much,
Loved I not honor more.

Richard Lovelace

Heroism, patriotism and love are the most powerful
emotions a man can ever know. If they don't touch you....well...

"Breaths there a man with soul so dead,
who has not to himself has said,
'This is my own, my native land'
When returning from some distant shore!"

Sir Walter Scott

So, while I listen to and address comments on war by those
who talk philosphy and politics...I can never, ever turn from
honorable men who risked everything they have and will ever have...
because of love...for country...for honorable womanhood. It is what
I understand as my Southern Creed...and for it I weep unashamedly.

Nice post...remember the man, and the woman he loved more than life. Hoo-Ha.


Duty, Honor, Country