Daniel Brian Hyde

West Point, 2007

Be Thou At Peace

Posted by Adam Nordin on May 31, 2021:

Dan, 12 years it's been. Your mother published a book recently- 24 Years and 40 Days. Your age when we lost you. Strikingly, you've been gone for half of your age on earth. I's hard to imagine that much time has already passed. I bought the book. It's filled with family photos, of correspondence, and memories. Your mother is so strong, and so resolute. The book is a history lesson of your life, of the great person you were, and the soldier you become. She detailed your last moments, of the strength you exhibited despite your wounds, and of your comrades who gave you their best. You'll be glad to know we are leaving the Middle East. Biden is president now, we are amidst some vaccine relief from the COVID pandemic, and our longest war is drawing to a close. I can't say we've won, but we certainly haven't lost. The Taliban will likely take control of Afghanistan, similar to how Vietnam ended. Only this time, we won't have repelled communism or defeated terrorism. We just... made a statement. The future of the Army is rapid deployment to face a near peer or peer adversary. Dan- for what it's worth, you've guided us well. We asked much of you after you left- to shine a light, and help us find our way. I think, now, we've made it to a point of reprieve. To a point in time when we can step back and take in the moments that have passed and the lessons we've learned. And to take stock of what it all means so we can prepare for the next time. So thank you- for getting us here. I want you to know you are not forgotten. And I thank you for your sacrifice, so that we may be free of tyranny and fear. -Adam

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