"These fallen heroes represent the character of a nation
who has a long history of patriotism and honor -
and a nation who has fought many battles
to keep our country free from threats of terror."

-- Michael N. Castle

Friday, May 01, 2009

Unseen future

Ladies and Gentlemen,

A lot has happened since the war began. We still deploy on a rapid cycle. Always training, always preparing for the next call to leave families behind and spend another 12 to 18 months in a place that has become our home away from home. The relationships we build amoungst ourselves in the thick of battle is an indistructable bond. So much has happened. So much has been gained. So much has been lost. This was another battle provoked by tyrants that think freedom is a joke.

I am honored and humbled to have been an important part in defending our freedoms and the American way of life. The Fallen Soldier bike is a symbol for all to see that people do care and choose to remember. Todays economy makes it even harder to raise the funds to complete this project. I am thankful for all who have donated to the Soldier's Angels and the Fallen Soldier Bike project.

I am stepping down. The project will continue. I have been through many things that haunt me and scare me. I have done my part. It has been hard. I am going to leave the military. I am going to go home. I will survive the best I can and in the end I hope it is enough for my children. I hope they learn to be proud of their father. It is time for me to go. I will forever remember the soldiers I have served with. I will never forget those I have lost. I am thankful for the friends that have supported me. Bless all of you and may all your lives be filled with the hopes and joys you so rightly deserve. This is Sketch saying goodbye for the last time. God Bless America.