The Ball

Dear Sgt. Grit,

This past November, I was an honored guest at the Marine Corps Birthday Ball in 29 Palms. My boyfriend is a Cpl in CLB-7, long side of my little brother. This September, I was lucky enough to have my Marine come back safely from his deployment in Iraq but my brother is still over there. The Ball was like nothing I have ever experienced. During the ceremony, there were several parts where I felt tears welling up in my eyes. I saw a part of the Marine Corp that night that very few Americans will ever see. I looked beyond my own tears and saw grown men weeping as they honored their fallen Marines and Marines that served before them. With my love standing proudly next to me in his dress blues and my brother in Iraq in my heart, I made a mental note not to ever forget that night. I felt like I was there not only as a guest, but in place of my brother who was not able to be with the rest of his unit. I was respectfully greeted by everyone and proudly introduced as "Adams' Sister". Thank you again to all of our Troops for doing what they do for us. My heart goes out to you all.

Loving regards,
Lori Adams