In an op-ed titled “Memorial Day 2023: Note on a white stone cross,” published on Fox News, a former Navy SEAL named Willink pens a heartfelt letter to his late brother. He begins his missive by noting the presence of flowers at his brother’s grave, placed there by fellow servicemen, and the camaraderie this act represents.

Willink then shares his grief, conveying how much he misses his brother’s laughter, which he describes as contagious, adding a touch of joy to the world. He acknowledges that his brother’s absence leaves a void, confessing that he misses both the joy and his brother himself.

Continuing his letter, he reflects on the passage of time, pointing out that the world moves on and time stops for no one, including him. As he highlights his own signs of aging, like gray hair and wrinkled skin, he expresses a sense of nostalgia, reminding him of the times they used to share laughter over such matters.

Quoting John 15:13, “Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends,” he gives context to his brother’s sacrifice. Willink goes on to reveal how he initially coped with his brother’s death. He admits that he was filled with anger and confusion, questioning why his brother was taken away.

However, over time, Willink managed to replace his anger with gratitude. He expresses appreciation for the time they spent together, for having the chance to serve alongside his brother, and for the honor of calling him both a friend and a brother.

In a particularly poignant statement, Willink credits his brother’s death for giving him a new appreciation for life. He makes a pledge to live his life to the fullest, to savor every moment and every breath, and not to squander a single sunset or laugh.

Concluding his letter, he makes a promise to honor his brother’s memory, acknowledging the debt he feels he owes for the gift of life his brother’s sacrifice provided. He ends his touching tribute by vowing to remember his brother always, signing off with, “Until next time, Your Brother.”