To All of You and Your Partners:

"Thank you" hardly carries the impact of the message I wish to extend you.  Your thoughtfulness and letters of encouragement are profoundly appreciated.  So many cards and packages from strangers across our great country have arrived here for me in our small outpost in Afghanistan near the Iranian border, it is cause for reflection and humility. 

Nearly ten years ago, I gave up my part in a law practice in Texas and stopped teaching at Hardin-Simmons University in order to serve our country like thousands of others from within the military.  My wife and our two young sons have been very supportive of my career in the military, but I know they have endured more than I during this period of high operation tempo.

I want to thank you all and my family for the opportunity to serve a grateful and blessed nation.  I am confident that most soldiers envision their service as an honor and are proud to defend our safety and freedom abroad. 

My request of you is that you be vigilant in defending you freedoms at home.  Don't allow the privileges of being a United States citizen to be usurped in any way.  Freedom is not free; it comes at a cost: missed birthdays, baby's first steps, and lost lives.  Spend your freedom wisely and never give it away.  You are all loved and appreciated and it is a pleasure to serve on your behalf.

Most respectfully yours,

 Case McDole
CPT, USA
1ID, 5-1 Kandak, Herat-Afghanistan