by Laura Leigh Fields

Created on: January 22, 2008

My nineteen-year-old brother just joined the military. He is fresh out of high school and still wet behind the ears. He signed up for full infantry and after his basic training is finished he will be deployed for active duty. My brother is still a baby and he's toting a gun and protecting me.

When I think about possible outcomes, I am terrified. I don't want anything bad to happen to my brother. Now, the war is personal. It has always been about me, about the world I live in but I never realized just how important these people in the military are. They are all sisters, brothers, cousins, moms, dads, and even grandparents. They all have family that worries like I do.

The troops are helping us to establish a better way of life. They are defending our freedoms and our lives. They are a part of us, even if we never met them. There are many ways that we can actually support our troops rather than just talking about it.

You don't have to know anyone in the military to send letters. You can send greeting cards, phone cards, and other packages. Check your local community center or National Guard to see what is needed. There are also companies that will donate money from the products you buy to help the troops.

Fly your flag. Wear a yellow ribbon. Display your colors proudly. You can also show pride by wearing hats and T-shirts that support the military. There are many gadgets and accessories (such as stickers, pins, paper, and cups) that you purchase that show pride.

Volunteer in the community. If the troops can defend the United States, you can help out in your local area. You may even be able to get the community involved in sending care packages and thank you letters in support of our troops. You may even be able to organize a fundraiser.

There are people dying every day. I cross my fingers that my brother isn't one of them. I remember him as a baby. I think of how beautiful he was with those little blonde curls that framed his face. I want the very best for him. I hope he makes it hope safely. I wish the world knew what a wonderful little fellow they have on their side. We are lucky to have people like my brother, who are willing to put it all on the line to make things better.

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