A Salute to a Brother in Arms | Shane Matthews

From the time I was a boy, I always knew I wanted to be a soldier. There was something about the way those in uniform carried themselves—the sense of duty, the pride, the honour that made me yearn to follow in their footsteps. My father had served, as had his father before him, and it seemed only natural that I, too, would join the ranks. It wasn't just about carrying on a family tradition; it was about a deeper calling, a sense of purpose I couldn't shake. I envisioned myself fighting for something greater than myself, serving alongside comrades who would become like brothers to me. And in many ways, that dream came true.