Daniel Preston Whitten

West Point, 2004

Be Thou At Peace

Posted by Mike Haith on February 5, 2010:

Dan, I apologize, but this letter is really just a collection of thoughts and memories; I can�t put together a coherent letter right now. I miss you already. I wish you were here so I could give you a hug. I found the ticket from Rosie�s last night; I think you know what I�m talking about -- that trip made the three of us. I found out yesterday before training; the whole time I was walking with the guys I thought of how much you loved the Army; how much we all talked about being Platoon Leaders at Bragg; and how much I will miss just laughing with you. My ruck never weighed so much. My favorite memory was seeing you after I got back from Iraq last year; I forgot how much I missed you and Justin. You guys are my best friends and I am crushed that we�ll never see you again -- it makes me sick. It meant the world to me when you made the wedding last year. Had I known it would be the last time I�d see you, I think I would have said a whole lot more. You were my best man, but I assure you that you are the better man. Last week I was teetering on sending you an email to catch up; I regret never sending it -- I always will. Tomorrow, Kim and I are heading out to see Justin. Just trying to grip hands and figure out where to go from here. I was looking at some old photos tonight; saw one of you and Starr dancing at my wedding. I remember when you told me you met Starr; I remember your wedding (both of them) and how I was wearing white socks with my wrinkled suit at the court house; and I also remember how much you guys love each other -- it broke my heart to hear Starr�s voice tonight. She is so courageous. I will never forget you --your smile, your hilariously inappropriate comments, your loud voice; but really your idealism, integrity, and loyalty. I bought a ten year old bottle of scotch last year to commemorate our 10 year R-day anniversary. I was saving it for the next time all three of us got together. I�ll bring it next week to say good-bye. I love you. Well done, friend. Be thou at peace.

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