In Afghanistan seven years ago, Army first lieutenant Todd Weaver was killed by an explosive device. For his widow Emma, it was doubly devastating: not only had she lost her husband, but their 9 month-old daughter Kylie would have no memories of her father. He never even got to say goodbye, or so Emma thought.
Two days after Todd’s interment at Arlington National Cemetery, Emma had a look at his computer and found two documents, one called “Dear Emma” and the other “Dear Kiley.” Knowing he might not return, Todd wrote down what he would have wanted to tell his wife and daughter.
Among his words for Emma: “Well if you are reading this, I guess I did not make it home and therefore, I was not able to remind you again of how much I love you. … Although it may seem like my life was cut short, I lived a life that most can only dream of. I married the perfect woman. I have a beautiful daughter that amazed me every day. I couldn’t ask for anything more. … Much better times are coming. You and Kiley have a wonderful life ahead of you and I am so happy to have shared some of it with you.”
And to his daughter: “Although you may not remember me, I want you to know how very much your Daddy loves you. I left for Afghanistan when you were 9 months old. Leaving you was the hardest thing I’ve ever had to do. You are so very special to me sweetie — you are truly a gift from God. The best day of my life was the day you were born. … You are so very lucky to have such a wonderful Mom to take care of you. … Always be nice and caring to others and you will discover that the world will be nice to you.”
We’d love to hear your thoughts about Todd’s moving letters to his wife and daughter in the Facebook comments. Like and share: it’s one way to pay tribute to this fallen hero.
