From the TOMB:
To whom it may concern,
I am trying to get a message to Mr Hall. I just wanted to pass on my appreciation to Mr Hall. I am a 1stLt in the Marine Corps and when I saw his interview on ESPN I was sincerely touched. I have met many Marines that have had the same dream as he. His success is an inspiration and should be made better known to Marines everywhere so they may realize that they to can achieve great things with the right motivation.
I also served in Afghanistan when I was enlisted. I was a coproral in 2002 when I deployed to Kandahar, Afghanistan. My path was a little different from Mr. Hall's. I graduated from Ball State University in 1995 and then enlisted four years later. I was later commissioned in 2003 after putting together my application during my second tour in Afghanistan. I am preparing to deploy to Iraq for the second time early next year. I am currently with 2d Battalion, 7th Marines.
I feel that Mr. Hall's service to his country and his subsequent success at the University of Texas and the Titans organization are extremely honorable. It is proof that a man can reach his dreams if he is willing to sacrifice and work hard. This is a message that will benefit Marines everywhere who have a desire to get an education and play collegiate athletics. You never know what the possibilities are unless you go out there and put it all on the line. Mr. Hall did exactly that and I have a lot of respect for him for that. He risked his life for his country and he has been repaid for his self-sacrifice, hard work, and courage.
Please pass this on to Mr. Hall if possible. I want him to know that I am proud of his accomplishments. He is a great example of the awesome accomplishments a Marine can have even after his service to his country and the Corps are complete.
Semper Fidelis; once a Marine, always a Marine.
Very Respectfully,
1stLt Matthew S. Moreno
Communications Officer
2d Battalion, 7th Marines