As You Get Ready Poem by Jon M. Nelson

You've grown up and we're proud of who you've become,
You have chosen a career that can only be done by a few.
We ask that you don't forget just where you came from,
As you get ready to join and serve the red, white, and blue.

You have a difficult task and many challenges ahead,
But we know that you will face them head on with pride.
When you leave home I hope none of your tears are shed,
As you get ready to go on this wild and adventurous ride.

The family is so proud that you're willing to fill the shoes,
Of so many others that have served in generations before.
You have too much fight in you to ever back down or lose,
As you get ready to make yourself into so much more.

We are ready to let you go and make it on your own,
So that you can serve and make this family so proud.
We look at you and see how much you have grown,
As you get ready to stand out from the crowd.