Daniel Brian Hyde

West Point, 2007

Be Thou At Peace

Posted by Adam Nordin on May 29, 2018:

Dan, Another year gone my brother. My wife, Mandy and I are preparing to PCS. It's hectic- you never really get better at them, and the Army always has a way of adding a couple steps to the process that are not necessary. We are heading to Newport, RI to attend the Naval War College in lieu of ILE. This last year has been exhilarating, exciting, challenging, and humbling. I was asked to stay in my Battalion an extra year to command a Ranger company. I was honored to be asked, particularly since it came on the heels of a rocky transition period for my company. We finished up the training cycle, deployed, and I took them through about 4 more months of training before handing off the guideon. A very quick command, but nonetheless memorable. We also found and incredible house to rent for the year- on the water in a quiet town. Just pure serenity. On this last deployment, my company had 4 Rangers wounded. I was there for one of them, fortunately just a grazing wound. 1 guy had a bullet lodge in his neck. He's fine, thankfully. If I didn't know better I'd say it sounds like Afghanistan 7 yers ago. My wife and I have become avid day hikers, and Washington has yet to disappoint. When we arrive at our turn-around, we usually take some time to stop and take in the majestic beauty of the place. My mind often drifts towards you... in a comforting and nostalgic sort of way. I'm 33 now- I was 23 when I last saw you. This is the longest I've ever been in one place since growing up in California- 4 years, same base and Battalion. Because it's the Army, a weird phenomenon happens to an officer during that period, and it's most noticed during the hails and farewells. When you first arrive, you and your wife are sort of on the outside! of the event, not really knowing anyone. As time goes on, you gradually know more and more people, and so you're more comfortable in the middle of everything. When you're around as long as me, you find yourself drifting back to where you started: a little to the outside again. Not because I'm being pushed out, but because it's tough to keep making new friends. I want you to know you always have a seat next to me. We are still fighting this awful war, and I am comforted by your presence. Every year I wish to tell you we've put this thing to bed, but I'm sad to report I can't say that yet. I've deployed 7 times now. I counted the stripes on my blues. 5, and not far from 6- 33 total months in another country. Iraq, the place you last were? About as bad as when you left it. It's neighboring country, Syria is worse. Dan, my brother. You are missed. I am honored to have known you, and to know that I have you in my corner, keeping my will in check and me ready to meet the next challenge. You're an example to us all. -Adam

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