2ndLt Kauer
HMLA-369 AH-1Z
FPO San Diego, CA 92102
To my Sun and Stars,
The time passes slowly here. The day runs long. The faces of my brothers show the attrition of war. I have been fighting constantly since we have arrived here. I know you have the deepest of concern for my health and wellbeing. I know you have sat on the couch looking at the door waiting for me to walk in as you do every single day. You are my strength. You give me the willpower to be there for my brothers whenever duty calls. I must admit to you after the combat I have experienced, I have the blood of other men on my hands. My hands have destroyed other human beings. It is a reality that I am not soon to accept. I do not know how I can ever accept such a fatal deed. The tree of liberty must be watered with the blood of man at times. I trust my actions will allow the free peoples of the world to sleep a little better at night and have time to share the smiles and laughs we share so often. I envy you, your youth, and your distance from the cruel conflict of which I am a part. Yet I consider myself fortunate to be serving the cause of liberty and though I fear death, each day in peril I reaffirm my willingness to give my life in it's service. Rest assured I have every intention of returning to your most cherished embrace, Mackenzie.
With the utmost affection and love,
Jake