Sad post from an American Hero

I recently read about Major Andrew Olmsted, who was sadly killed in Iraq. I warn anyone who might read this that it will make you sad, and might even make you cry. It was to be posted in the event of his death, which occurred at the beginning of the year.

His Final Blog Post .

In between quotes from tv shows and movies that influenced him, including our shared favorite show, Babylon 5, and my favorite movie, The Princess Bride, he shared a profound understanding of humanity, what it means to be here, where we're going, and what we can do to get there. I never knew him when he was alive, and I wish I had been reading his blog since it started. He chose to go back to the army, knowing he would be sent to Iraq. He requested his death not be made political, for either side, which is commendable to the utmost degree. He speaks truth in a manner that is rare in today's world.

He closes his message to this world with moving, beautiful words to his wife.

"I will see you again, in the place where no shadows fall."
Ambassador Delenn, Babylon 5

I don't know if there is an afterlife; I tend to doubt it, to be perfectly honest. But if there is any way possible, Amanda, then I will live up to Delenn's words, somehow, some way. I love you.

It is hard to read his post and not want to be a better person, a better friend, a better family member. It is hard not to want to make something out of our lives, and to mean something when we die.