A Gift to my Two Sons
This year, I feel compelled to give you something personal that has guided us through our lives for many years. I give you something that we have all earned, suffered for, and loved because of. I remind you of and re-give to you these things that were a huge part of our lives for so many years. First, I give you Honor.
Honor, which guides us to exemplify the ultimate in ethical and moral behavior by obeying the law, leading by example, respecting ourselves and all others, maintaining a high standard of integrity, supporting, and defending our constitution, upholding special trust and confidence, placing faith and honor above all else and honoring our Country and our Family. The qualities of maturity, dedication, trust, and dependability commit each of us to act responsibly; to be accountable for our actions; and to fulfill our obligations. Second, I give you Courage.
Courage, which is the mental, moral, and physical strength ingrained in each of us. Courage is the ability to do the right thing, in the right way, for the right reasons. It carries us through the challenges of life that we must face day after day and aids us in overcoming fear. It is the inner strength that enables us to do what is right; to adhere to a higher standard of personal conduct; to lead by example; and to make tough decisions under stress and pressure. Third I give you Commitment.
Commitment is the spirit of determination and dedication found inside each of us. It leads us to the highest order of discipline. It is the ingredient that enables 24-hour-a-day dedication to who you are and who you will become. It inspires the unrelenting determination to achieve a standard of excellence in every endeavor. Fourth, I give you my Marine Corps Ring:
This Ring carries the Marine Corps Emblem, the Eagle, Globe, and Anchor, which
symbolizes distant service under the American eagle by air, land, and sea, representing our nation's interests "in every clime and place." The symbol was adopted in 1868 and is perhaps the most recognized insignia in the world. Upon completion of what is now called the Crucible, I received my Eagle, Globe, and Anchor emblem from my drill instructors, Staff Sergeant Withrow and “Crazy” Sergeant Clark, and I accepted the following oath, which I have lived by for many years.
“I do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies foreign and domestic; that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same. That I will obey the orders of the President of the United States and the orders of the officers appointed over me, according to regulations and the Uniform Code of Military Justice. So, help me God.”
These are the things that have molded me into who I am today, be it good or bad, and have a large part in what makes you who you have become. Never forget your heritage and try to pass it on. Merry Christmas my son and thank you for becoming who you are. Next year, I might share with you, our hillbilly and redneck heritage.
I love you,
Dad
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