Robert Whitley – 7/25/08

Dear Brazoria County Cavalry,

         This is SPC Robert Whitley. It is to my understanding that you rode a SECOND time for my family and me. I would just like to extend my gratitude and appreciation for everything that your organization does for our Soldiers. It is very heartwarming and appreciated to an extent that, sadly, will never be fully understood by those who ride for us soldiers in the US Military. I have been told by many fellow Soldiers, Brothers and Sisters in arms alike, about how poorly and rudely they were welcomed back stateside. When you rode out to welcome me, it took damn near everything I had to prevent from breaking down when asked to say a few words. I had a “frog” in my throat something fierce. This was an unexpected warm and heartfelt welcome home ceremony. An overwhelming feeling of emotion; gratitude; pride; support; and appreciation towards everything, each and every one of you, do, support and stand for. It brings a smile to my face every time I think back to that day of honor and privilege. I brag about it to all of the soldiers here. Telling them how the Brazoria County Cavalry rode IN MY HONOR to greet me at MY HOUSE to thank ME for everything I do for our country, the people, and the United States Armed Forces. I tell them, “THAT’S TEXAS BABY!” To top it off, you rode a SECOND time to thank my family. I had tears in my eyes as my sister told me about how proud it made her that her brother was in the military and YOU rode to thank my family who supports me each and every day to the fullest. It’s organizations like yours and each and every one of you sitting and standing here today, and those of which could not make it for unforeseen reasons… it is people like YOU who make this job honorable and enjoyable. By the time my father reads this, I will be on my fourth and final deployment to a combat zone in Afghanistan. I will be bringing the hat that was presented to me and be sending many pictures of me wearing it, along with what pictures I am permitted to send due to Operational Security. Thank you once again for everything you do, stand for, and support.

This is SPC Whitley signing off the net,

American by birth, Soldier by choice, and TEXAN BY THE GRACE OF GOD

Whitley out.