One of the many different types of videos that we often see online are reunion videos. It sometimes happens when a family is reunited with their lost dog or perhaps when a brother and sister get back together after not being together for quite some time. Another type of reunion is when somebody comes back from active duty and surprises the family.
These types of videos often bring a tear to our eyes so they are shared online and passed around quite frequently.
Although a reunion video is a great thing to watch, it is not a reality for everybody who has a family member on active duty. Todd Weaver is one such individual who was killed by an IED in 2010. It was his second tour of Afghanistan and he was only 26 years old. He ended up leaving behind a wife, Emma and a little baby girl, Kiley.
Emma lives in Hampton, Virginia and she got the news about her husband. She then realized that they wouldn’t have the opportunity to say goodbye in the way that they would have liked. His life was cut short by an explosion and he was flown home for a memorial service. His family and friends got together to pay their respects and contributions were given to the Children of Fallen Soldiers Relief Fund.
He was honored as a soldier for the way that he lived as well as the way that he died. People look to him as an example as a father and husband as well as being a model soldier. When Todd’s funeral was over, Emma opened up his computer and saw something that made her stop.
I married the perfect woman. I have a beautiful daughter that amazed me every day.
I even had two great dogs – at least most of the time. I couldn’t ask for anything more. If you feel sad, just think back to the memories that we shared. Look at our daughter and how beautiful she is.
Be strong for her. Remind her about her Daddy and tell her that I loved her more than anything else in the world. Her birth was the best day of my life and she was the best thing that ever happened to me. Her smile and laughter represent all that is good and beautiful in this world.
Tell her that Daddy is in heaven now and will watch over her and protect her every minute of every day. I love you Emma. But never be afraid to do what you need to do to be happy. It is so important that you continue to find happiness in your life. Although you may think this is impossible right now, have faith.
Much better times are coming. You and Kiley have a wonderful life ahead of you and I am so happy to have shared some of it with you.
I love you.
Your loving Husband,
Todd
There was also a letter to his nine-month-old daughter, Kiley which read:
Dear Kiley, My Sweetie:
Although you may not remember me, I want you to know how very much your Daddy loves you.
I left for Afghanistan when you were 9 months old.
Leaving you was the hardest thing I’ve ever had to do.
You are so very special to me sweetie – you are truly a gift from God.
The best day of my life was the day you were born.
Every time I saw you smile my heart would just melt.
You were my sweetie – my life was not complete until you were born.
I am so sorry I will not be able to see you grow up.
But remember, your Daddy is not gone. I am in heaven now smiling down on you every day.
You are so very lucky to have such a wonderful Mom to take care of you.
Make sure you are good for her and help her out whenever you can.
Always remember to say your prayers at night and be thankful for all your many blessings.
Never forget how important and special you are to so many people.
We love you so very much. When you get older and start school, do your best and try to learn as much as you can about the world you live in.
Always be nice and caring to others and you will discover that the world will be nice to you.
But when things aren’t going your way, never forget that God knows what is best for you and everything will work out in the end.
You have such a bright and beautiful future ahead of you.
Have fun. Enjoy it. And remember, your Daddy will always be proud of you and will always love you.
You are and will always be my sweetie.
With very much love,
Your Daddy
Todd left behind two powerful letters just in case he never made it home from Afghanistan. Emma said that they were hard to read but they helped to give her some closure.
You can learn more about this soldier in the following video: