Phillip Isaac Neel

West Point, 2005

Be Thou At Peace

Posted by Adam Nordin on May 30, 2016:

Phil, It's Memorial Day 2016. 9 Years ago I graduated from West Point - and only a month before that I received the news of you. I'm still in 2nd Ranger Battalion at Ft Lewis. I'm engaged to Mandy, the woman who has stuck with me through three combat deployments and a move across the country. When I reflect on the meaning of today, I know I am very fortunate. Mandy and I have suffered some severe blows at work over the last 8 months, but it all seems so small and trivial when I think about the men like you who have come before me. Men like you that stood tall and answered, without question, our nation's call to arms in the name of freedom and of life without fear of terrorism. I am sad to report to you that we have yet to root out the blood lines and idiologies that make up the fabric of international terrorism. In some respects, it has only gotten worse- growing like a cancer without a cure. Recently I've questioned whether or not to stay in the military. I've found that I can't walk away... not yet. There are too many memories, too many experiences, and too much knowledge at stake. When I think of your sacrifice, it hits me like a surge of energy to push past the hurdles and stay the course - we cannot and must not rest until our job is complete and balance is restored. It is beautiful outside today, Phil. The sun is out, the sky is clear, and people are at the beaches barbecuing and enjoying the day. Some people say that Americans don't respect the meaning of Memorial Day like they should. If you ask me, I'm happy that they don't have to think about its meaning. I'm glad that they can enjoy the day off with their families without a concern for their safety. That is the true meaning of today that only those of us who have experienced can understand. As a man who has experienced, I thank you for your sacrifice, Phil. I thank you for moving toward the sound of the guns and leading your men until the bitter end - an example that few can replicate and even fewer will ever have to experience. I thank you for giving meaning to our lives, and for giving me a reason to remember. I will continue to sleep well, brother, because I know you are up there, watching over me, keeping me safe, and shining a light when it's dark. Rest well, Brother. 'We have the watch.' -Adam

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