I sit here now in the main lounge of my barracks, continuing with the day-to-day bullshit that goes on here and I wonder, like I often do, why in the world did I join this military? Then, my thoughts turn to my loved ones; the men, women, children, and pets who make this life of mine worth living. I start off thinking about how they are doing; wishing I was back home watching the game, or getting ready to go out on the town, or even staying home to spend a calm, quiet evening with the woman I love. A while later, I start thinking about how they are able to do all of these things because of men and women have stepped up to fight for these rights that we have. Men like my grandfather, MAC Ray Carpenter, who fought in Guadalcanal in WWII to protect not only his country, but his loved ones. My thoughts return to my loved ones. I think about what would happen if not for the men and women stepping up today. Like myself, for example. I do not want to see any harm come to those I care about, therefore, I have become a sailor, like my grandfather before me. I have taken an oath to protect not only my loved ones, but the loved ones of everyone around the country. If that means I have to put up with petty bullshit right now, then so be it. I will not allow 9/11 to happen again. The blood that flows within me is the blood of warriors; the blood of guardians who have fought for this country. That same blood is in me and has ignited a fire that burns hotter than a thousand suns, but will not burn unless you look to harm that which I am sworn to protect. I am a United States Sailor. Rest now, my loved ones; I will not let you down.