Happy Birthday Mark

Dear Mark,

In two days you'll be turning twenty-four, and we know it may be a while before you get this birthday note. Uncle Sam told us he'd be keeping you quite busy for the next several months. (He said something about maybe having the computer hooked up after the first 9 weeks of your visit there.) When you decided to go help him out, we knew there'd be a lot of hard work involved, but none of us knew the full extent, for sure. Your uncle can be a tough task-master, but you are strong and we know you'll do your best for him. Even though you won't have a chance to celebrate this birthday in the usual way, we want you to know that we are celebrating you and your decision to toil for Uncle Sam. We are proud of you!

Love,
Dad and Mom

P.S. We're planning a big party for your return.