A Call For Heroes

Hey Cindy,

I was just walking down the street here in Olongapo, Philippines and saw this little cyber-cafe, thought I would drop a line… could you do a favor for me? Please, with kitten paws pushing on your belly! I just came out of the field for a few days and a few nights ago, while lying in a hammock in the pouring rain, while checking the time; it was passing dreadfully slow… I had time to reflect on the past, that’s what happens when counting the seconds waiting for life to “end”. …I’m doing okay. You take care, and I’ll chat with you soon!! Safe, Chris

Chris was 25 years old when he emailed me the above request. He was asking me to reach out to someone that was special to him and convey birthday wishes. I kept many of my brothers cards, letters and emails to me with the intent to pass them back to him after his career in the Navy ended. Chris was sentimental, and I thought he might like to revisit his military journey through his messages to me. I loved that this person people saw on the “outside” as a tough guy had a softer side, and I feel blessed that I was in his inner circle from the beginning.

My brother’s letters to me remained filed away until I started this blog, and it’s been an emotional journey for me to reread them. On the lighter side, he was descriptive as he recounted many unique experiences that were so different from anything we were exposed to growing up. Chris was comfortable sharing his feelings; he felt loved and supported and was selfless in reciprocating encouragement.

This trip down memory lane also made it clear that my brother was hurting. This was a difficult thing to allow myself to process. War changes people. How can it not? I am the daughter of a Marine who was sent to Vietnam twice. I am the sister of a SEAL who was sent on numerous deployments. In my struggle to cope with the aftermath of war, including my brother’s death, it was Chris’ last request that provided guidance as I learned to navigate life without him.

I heard people refer to my brother as a hero after he died. I’ve thought about this a lot and what it means to be a hero. Chris wrote his “last request” when he was alive, but it could only be accomplished by others if he didn’t make it home! Chris was inviting anyone who learned of his goal to be a hero. On August 6th, 2011 the baton was passed to Americans. On September 8th, 2024, Nels Matson, took the baton and began a transcontinental run – a run to inspire others to be a hero and give hope to our veterans by supporting Wounded Warrior Project.

Today is National Hero Day. As Nels continues his heroic run to honor my brother’s memorial request, I would like to invite you to be a hero by donating to Wounded Warrior Project to fund the incredible programs and services they offer to our nations veterans after their military service ends. Nels has set a goal of raising $100 per mile. Any amount donated will go towards his total goal of $306,700. Visit T4N1.org to make your contribution.

Thank you for being a hero to veterans today!