Erica Lynn Harris |
Erica Lynn Harris has been married for almost two years to her high school sweetheart, Marine Sgt. Benjamin Harris. The couple lives in Sneads Ferry, N.C., near Camp Lejeune, but Erica is staying with her parents in Maine until Ben returns from his deployment with the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit, serving in Operation Enduring Freedom. Ben has been in the Marines for more than three years and plans to get out this summer. The couple had their first child, Jacob, last year. He is now eight months old.
My Dearest Ben,
I hope this letter finds you in good spirits. As I look into our son’s eyes every day, I see you. I miss you every second we’re apart, but there’s a reason for our separation. You’ve been my hero for years, now it’s time for the world to see you shine.
Finally, everyone will see all that you stand for, all that you’re made of — pride, honor, strength and a faith that shames most men. Though my heart aches without you, I know what my duty as a Marine’s wife calls for, and so I give you to our country, to our world, “to fight for right and freedom”, as the Marine’s Hymn states. I give you to the families who lost in the attacks on our country, and I give you to the rest of the world. Without men like you, people wouldn’t have the freedom to sit down to dinner with their families, to tuck their children into bed at night, knowing that they’ll be safe. I understand the pain of separation is temporary. If I must give up the sound of your laughter for the sound of my tears, so be it. The sound of my tears then will give me strength as your laughter once did. They are tears of loneliness, anger and fear, but also of pride and love. You are the air I breathe, and while I am lost without you, I know you’ll be home soon to find me. God speed, and God bless.
Your loving wife,
Erica
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