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Dear 933rd,
The Crippin family and I are so grateful for your service. This letter shouldn't have taken as long as it has to get to you and I apologize for that. It is the hardest letter that I have ever had to write.
Meeting and falling in love with Josh, or Sgt. Crippin as you all know him, was the most amazing thing that has ever happened in my life. He was and is still a huge part of my life. So many times he shared many stories from Iraq and drill, and crazy nights that had many of you in it. You know who you are!
Thank you for being a part of Josh's life. He had so much pride in the 933rd and I cannot even begin to tell you how honored he would feel to see the way that his life was remembered on that sad day in August. The respect, the honor, and the beautiful words spoken during the two days of his visitation and funeral would have brought more joy to him then I can express.
To those of you who spoke, stood next to his casket, and those who carried him to the burial site, thank you. The bond between soldiers is something I will never know, but to bury one of your own? I can't begin to imagine. Thank you for looking into my eyes and for maintaining eye contact when I needed the strength, for shaking my hand, and for your hugs. It was the little actions that allowed me to be stronger during that time. Fighting tears is not easy, especially when they are motivated by loss, but you helped me so much.
The family of Josh would like me to express their continued appreciation for everything you have done. Thank you for not only honoring Josh, but for serving our country. Josh hated it when I called him my hero. "Stop it Melissa! It's my job." I know it is your job, but it isn't your job that makes you a hero, it is how you use your job to touch other lives. You are all my heroes.
God Bless you,
Melissa Croy