My friend K's husband came home from a 6 month stint in Iraq this afternoon. 

I know she's glad to see him, and I know that he's glad to be home.....

But I wanted to express my gratitude to the both of them.  K's been a good friend to me whilst our husband's have been gone, and I want to publicly acknowledge that.  So, K, thanks for all you've done...I couldn't have asked for a better compadre.  I puked in your car and you didn't complain, and you even half carried me into the ER ...it takes a real friend to do that!

As for you, Sgt W...thank you for your service.  I know that you're going to say that it wasn't a big deal, but dude....it was, and it is.  You put yourself in harm's way, you endured separation from those you love the most, you put up with a tent dwelling and crappy food and horrible work schedules so that those of us who reside in this great nation can speak freely, worship how we please and generally do what we want, when we want without fear of persecution.  You epitomized the core value of 'service before self', and for that I think you deserve recognition.

Enjoy your time off together, and send your kids our way sometime in the next couple of weeks. We're itching to watch them for you......yes, I know we don't have to, and yes, I know it's not necessary, but we WANT to, so you'd better take us up on your offer or else I'm going to have to come down there and kick BOTH your butts, THEN take your kids. 

Oh, and one more thing: welcome home, Sgt W.