Jackson writes to his cousin in Missouri. Jackson's cousin was medically exempt from the draft.

Dear Thomas,

I find that there is no other option; God has called me to my destiny. I never thought it would be in

the U.S. Army. But He knows best and is not without reason. I leave for Basic tomorrow morning

and the rain that ensues tonight does little to lift my spirits. I would not say I am afraid, I don't think

it has set in yet. This is the most "real" thing I have ever done and I don't believe I will ever be able

to fathom it completely.

I know you are worried I will be mad at you, even resentful. Rest assured that I am not. For it is

God's will that beckons me off, and God's will that keeps you here. He will watch over us both and

keep us. Pray that His eyes never leave us.

I plan on waking up real early tomorrow and spend a few last hours with my birth land. I can only

imagine what awaits me and I imagine I don't want to see any of it. I will write to you cousin,

when and whereI can. I ask that until I return keep praying for my pap. I do believe it will be hardest

on him.

Sincerely yours,

Cousin Daniel

Exodus 15:2 The LORD is my strength and song, and he is become my salvation: he is my God, and I will prepare him an habitation; my father's God, and I will exalt him. 3 The LORD is a man of war: the LORD is his name