That's Marine for "always faithful."
On Monday, August 1, 2011, my brother took the Oath of Enlistment for the United States Marine Corps.
I can't possibly explain how proud I am for reaching his goal of so many years. Ever since I can remember my brother has wanted to be in the military. He's wanted to be the biggest, baddest, toughest guy out there; but most of all, he wanted to be the best.
He's had his share of problems with people and pre-military organizations, but he's always pushed through it and come out better for it.
He didn't let anyone tell him "No," and then just give up. He persevered and reached his goal.
I'm also terrified for him. Afraid he'll go get shot or blown up and come home in a box with a flag draped over it, and I'll never see him again, never tease him, get mad at him, or tell him how much I love him. My brother and I have never gotten along as best friends, we were always the siblings that fought over every. little. thing. but that never changed how much we love each other. We're there for each other when things get tough; we may yell and fight during the process, but that just means "I love you" in our language.
So, Stephen - I'd call you Stevo like always, but I know you don't like that - I love you more than you can possibly know. Even though we yell and fight and disagree on pretty much everything there is to disagree on. Even though sometimes I don't like you - I will always love you; and I will always be your big sissy. And I will always be proud of you.
Okay, okay, enough with the sappy stuff. Heh. Even though my brother overcame so many obstacles and finally reached his goal of being a Marine, he's still not happy. He's already got a plan for being the top of his class and come out higher than the rest. He still wants to be the best.
And that's why "Semper Fi" describes my brother perfectly.
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