Christopher Shultz Goeke

West Point, 2008

Be Thou At Peace

Posted by Ted Daley, USMA '88, Eagan, Minnesota on July 19, 2010:

Our thoughts and prayers are with you during these hours. I write this to you as a grateful citizen representing a grateful Nation. For the four years at West Point, the United States Military Academy took your son on a journey through the crucible of the most demanding academic, physical, and military curriculum in the world. As the #6 graduate, Cadet Goeke, Christopher, clearly met and exceeded the highest standards of learning, living, and performance. Upon graduation he led the best equipped Army on the face of the earth and was surely an extraordinary leader in our great Army. Even in the greatest Army in the world, at times there are tremendous personal costs in this profession of arms. It was his willingness to bear the possibility of that cost which ennobled him, his calling, and this gathering. No greater love than this no man hath, that a man lay down his life for his friends. John 15:13 Rest assured however, the sacrifice was NOT in vain. In the days, weeks, months and years ahead, we will continue to work hard in the private sector and in civilian life to honor his military sacrifice. We will cherish all moments with our families. We will honor his memory each day as we give thanks for the sacrifice he made so we could enjoy life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. And we will continue to fight to keep this nation free from all enemies. From the bottom of our hearts -- thank you for your service -- thank you for your ultimate sacrifice.

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