This is an exerpt of a letter that was recently sent to Cynthia Martinez from her son Ryan, who just graduated from basic training in Kentucky.

I am an American soldier, I am a warrior and a member of a team. I serve the people of the United States, and live the Army values. I will always place the mission first. I will never accept defeat. I will never quit. I will never leave a fallen comrade. I am disciplined, physically and metally tough, trained and proficient in my warrior task and drills.

I will always maintain my arms, my equipment and myself. I am an expert and a professional. I stand ready to deploy, engage and destory the enemies of the United States of America in close combat. I am a guardian of freedom and the American way of life.

Fear not for if God is on my side, who can be against me. I can do all things through Christ.

I understand that I could lose my life, I understand that I could lose everything close to me. But it's a small price to pay for freedom. I fight for you, the kids, my wife and everybody that hates me. I fight so you don't have to. So you guys can sleep in peace.

Thank you for being the best Mother around, the best role model and the best friend I could ever have.

Love,

Ryan