Our Dad is the man I can’t stop talking about. To my coworkers, my friends, and anyone who asks, I tell them about him. When I joined the Air Force, the question always came up: Why did you choose this path? My answer has never changed—not since the very first day. It was always because of my Dad. I share my story with anyone who will listen, about how my father dreamed of his children serving in the military, earning that retirement, and securing a future that would last a lifetime. For 19 years, his words have been my compass, my driving force. I could have walked away years ago for a comfortable job, but I stayed. I stayed because of that quiet, persistent voice in my head—stay until 20, earn that retirement. That voice was his. It was Dad’s dream, his hope for me, and I carried it with me every single day.
Dad was relentless in his belief in us. He wanted more for his kids than he had, and he made sure we knew it. I may not have been the quickest to understand, or the most obedient as a kid, but I heard him. I heard every word. He often said his biggest regret was chasing money, but with a big family, how could he not? I didn’t always show it, but I was listening. More than he probably ever realized. Dad was—and always will be—my inspiration, my hero, the man I looked up to with unwavering admiration. He shaped me into the person I am today. If I could go back to those teenage years, sure, I’d change a lot of things. But I would never change the values he instilled in me, the lessons he taught, or the love he gave. Those are the pieces of him that live on in me.
Thank you, Dad, for always being there—for listening, for guiding, for loving us through every high and low. You were the best father anyone could ask for, and I can only hope to be half the man you were to us for my own children. I love you more than words can ever express. Until we meet again, say hi to Kris for us. You are forever in my heart.
Love always,
Me
Alycia
Letter here
Katrina
Dad,
I feared when this day would come. I am so thankful for the time we had with you. You and mom instilled so many of your values in us that I am so thankful for.
I’m reliving so many memories from my childhood. From your clown days, to the family zoo trips, to sledding, and you pretending you were asleep on the couch so we could roll
you off onto the ground, to the day you told me I would join the military...I told you I was was NOT going to join. Twenty years later and I was the first to retire at 38 years old.
It truly is the most wonderful feeling to know for the rest of my life I don’t have to worry. Thank you for that!!! I will never forget the time you and mom came to stay with me
during one of my most trying times of my life. I can remember just coming back to the room after my procedure and you were talking to the nurse. You were telling her how moody I was
being at home. I open my eyes and said, “Dad, I can hear everything you are saying!!!” I love all the encouragement you and mom have given to me about Quinn. How you both always said
she is a special girl. I love the connection she had with you. The way she would hug and love on you or hold your hand. She doesn’t do that with just anyone, only the special few.
Someone who she feels safe with. You gave that feeling to her. Thank you for loving her. I am thankful for seeing you this past summer. I miss you and love you so much, Dad. I will
always keep you in my heart and my prayers.
xo, Katrina
P.S. Mickey Mouse
Jennifer
Brandon
Dad, I really like this song.
Oh, before they turn off all the lights
I won't read you your wrongs or your rights
The time has gone
I'll tell you goodnight, close the door
Tell you I love you once more
The time has gone
So here it is
I'm not your son, you're not my father
We're just two grown men saying goodbye
No need to forgive, no need to forget
I know your mistakes and you know mine
And while you're sleeping I'll try to make you proud
So, daddy, won't you just close your eyes?
Don't be afraid, it's my turn
To chase the monsters away
Oh, well, I'll read a story to you
Only difference is this one is true
The time has gone
I folded your clothes on the chair
I hope you sleep well, don't be scared
The time has gone
So here it is
I'm not your son, you're not my father
We're just two grown men saying goodbye
No need to forgive, no need to forget
I know your mistakes and you know mine
And while you're sleeping I'll try to make you proud
So, daddy, won't you just close your eyes?
Don't be afraid, it's my turn
To chase the monsters away
Sleep a lifetime
Yes, and breathe a last word
You can feel my hand on your own
I will be the last one
So I'll leave a light on
Let there be no darkness, in your heart
But I'm not your son, you're not my father
We're just two grown men saying goodbye
No need to forgive, no need to forget
I know your mistakes and you know mine
And while you're sleeping I'll try to make you proud
So, daddy, won't you just close your eyes?
Don't be afraid, it's my turn
To chase the monsters away
Lisa
Letter here
Kristofer
We are finally together, Watching over Mom and the kids. We love you all!