Entry # 51: June 7, 2006

Camp Buehring, Kuwait (Somewhere near the Iraq border)

Matthew’s done got hisself a diplomer and got hisself an edumacation. Believe it or not, he’s also got a job. Now I don’t have much to make fun of him about. A college degree and a job was the last I had on my brother. He’s also taller than me, got a sweet girlfriend, and can grow his hair long enough to hide the hairline. I have nothing left up my sleeve.

Many people think of June 7, 1983 as the 39th Anniversary of D-Day + 1. To me, it was the day my best friend and biggest competitor entered the world. Together we grew up conquering the backyard, playing sports, and butting heads. It’s pretty common knowledge that I’m the fighter in the family and Matthew is the peacemaker. But for all the times we fought, we always made up. Matthew was too much fun to be around to stay mad at. People are drawn to him like bass are to his fishing lure. He’s a people person and it’s a treat to be in his company.

The other day, Matthew reminded me of a time when we were in our teens and playing basketball. I drove hard to the basket for a seemingly easy basket only to have it smacked into the pine straw by the outstretched arm of Matthew. I was furious. This shouldn’t happen. I said it was a foul. He said it was clean. So I punched him. I guess I couldn’t come to terms with the fact that my little brother was no longer little, but was taller than me. It was a startling realization.

One of my favorite memories was being able to play soccer with my brother on the same high school team. Our playing styles fit our personalities. He was the smooth, tricky winger who would ease down the sideline like a surfer headed for waves at Waikiki. I was the pugnacious battler in the center of the field, scrapping away. I remember one game where Matthew was fouled pretty hard by a member of the opposing team after megging him. The next time that guy came my way, he got an elbow in the nose and a Charlie-horse to his thigh. I was the only one allowed to pick on my brother.

From Matthew I’ve learned many things. He knows how to enjoy the finer things in life and doesn’t get troubled at the onset of tough times. He just smiles and deals with it as it comes. He works hard and takes pleasure in the company of friends and family. He’s extremely generous and always willing to help those out in need. I can’t wait to get back and grill out a juicy steak, share a nice bottle of red wine, tell jokes, and recall fond memories with him. I simply can’t wait to get back. And so the Soldier’s life continues…