War Letter - A Lesson in communication

The following letter was written by Capt. Marshall to a berieved mother who had lost her four sons in the great war. A special team was deployed to fetch her last son. The team succeeds. This letter was found in the armoured vest of the captain leading the special squad who was KIA.

The clincher is the last sentence. Keep reading -

Dear Mrs. Ryan,
It is with the most profound sense of joy that I write to inform you that your son, Pvt. James Ryan is well, and at this very moment returning home from European battlefields. Reports from the front indicate that James did his duty in combat with great courage and steadfast dedication even after he was informed about the tragic loss that your family has suffered in this campaign to rid the world of tyranny and opression.

I take great pleasure in joining the Secretary of War, men and women of the United States Army and citizens of a greatful nation in wishing you good health and many years of happiness with James by your side.

Nothing, not even the safe return of a beloved child can compensate you, or the thousands of Americans that have suffered great loss in this war. I may share with you a few words that have sustained me through long dark nights. I quote:

I pray that our heavenly father may assuage the anguish of your aggrievement and leave you only with the cherished memories of the loved and the lost and the solemn pride that must be yours to have laid so costly a sacrifice on the altar of freedom.
-Abraham Linclon

Your's sincerely and respectfuly,

Capt. Marshall
(Ground Chief Staff)