In response to letters written by Coldspring Intermediate fourth-graders, U.S. Marine Sergeant Adrian Medina, a Coldspring-Oakhurst High School graduate, sent the letter below.
“It is a touching reminder of how important it is to support our servicemen and women who remain in harm’s way so far from home. We are proud of our teachers and students for showing how much they care, and of those who serve our country so selflessly,” said Cassie Gregory, the district’s public information officer.
The letter from Medina is as follows:
“Dear friends,
“I want to thank you all for the letters you sent me and my fellow soldiers. To us soldiers here overseas receiving a letter is like Christmas morning. We love to get letters and are just as excited to open them as you are to open that Christmas present on Christmas morning.
“I want you all to know that your friendship will continue to help us be strong and ready to accomplish any mission or task that our country asks of us. Letters like this one from family and friends helps us remember what we are fighting for, and helps us all get through the rough times and the hardships of being away from family and friends.
“Thanks to your support we are stronger than ever, and that is why our country will always win any battles and remain #1. I cannot ever thank you all enough for taking the time to write these letters and support us while defending our country.
“Also please be thankful for your school and teachers. Where I am a lot of kids do not get the opportunity to go to school and learn. So just remember to do good in school and learn as much as you can so one day you can do your part and further better this great country. I hope you all have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
Note: Thank you for the picture, William Cole Woodruff. It was awesome!
Your friend always,
Sergeant Adrian Medina
United States Marine”
