My Daughter Was Laughed at for Standing Alone at the Father-Daughter Dance—Until a Dozen Marines Walked Into the Gym

began to read.

Slowly at first.

Then louder.

“Katie-Bug,
Being your dad is the greatest honor of my life.
If I can’t be there, I want my brothers to stand in my place.
Dance, laugh, be brave.
I’ll always be with you.
Love, Dad.”

Katie’s lip quivered.

Then she cried.

Softly at first.

Then fully.

The General placed a hand gently on her shoulder.

“He wanted this for continue reading …