Daniel Brian Hyde

West Point, 2007

Be Thou At Peace

Posted by Adam Nordin on May 26, 2014:

Dan, Memorial Day, 26 May 2014. Much time has passed and there are many stories to share. I write to you, again, from Afghanistan. I'm currently serving in 2d Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment, a 7-year dream that finally became a reality just a couple months ago -- something we talked about years ago. The Ranger Scroll brings so much more meaning to the Tab, the one we pinned on our left shoulders for the first time 6 years ago this month. I am proud to be part of this organization, though I have much to learn. I'm constantly humbled by the physical fitness and cerebral capacity of those around me, but you'd probably fit right in with this unit. I had the good fortune to lead my company into Afghanistan last October. I feel my time with them was cut short in order to pursue this opportunity with the Rangers, but the experiences were priceless. We defended the last company COP in Afghanistan, and I had the great opportunity to work with COL Whitehurst, your last battalion commander. There is hardly a day that passes without you crossing my mind -- something that often brings a smile or gives me the strength to push through mental or physical barriers. You were a leader and an example for all of us. There isn't a better, more capable person whom we can entrust to watch over us, give us strength, and ensure we are able to defend what matters most. Today, we celebrate those that have gone before us and reflect on their sacrifice. I am thankful to have known you well and to call you a Brother. I thank you for your strength and pride and for painfully accepting your destiny. We are all better for having known you. You are not forgotten. -Adam

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