John....my HERO, brother, and inspiration...

My brother, John Henry McElroy....he was my best friend growing up. We used to build separate forts and have pinecone wars to see which of us who could destroy the others fort (of course the boys always won). we were the best explorers and always loved being outdoors. I remember one time while living in Sandy Creek, NY john and I were out on our bikes (we were always riding our bikes) and we were quite far out exploring. We discovered a hidden, old, rundown, circus like area tucked into the woods a little bit. We felt like we discovered gold. It was so cool and we were so proud, what a blast. We explored everything. We loved going down to the creek and finding water holes to swim in....one spot which was under a small bridge you could walk through and even lay down in the creek. That was our spot in the summer. I remember going to Brennan's Beach on the lake where my grandparetns had a summer house. We would slide down the giant sand doon behind the house and have sand stuck up our pants for a week!! We loved swimming. He truly was my BFF growing up. We were both little trouble makers as teens, but John made the decision to finish High School in an Army type school. From there he joined the Army, became a Ranger, was shot, recieved the Purple Heart and two bronze stars. He is currrently on his 9th tour overseas. What an inspiration. A few years ago (maybe more than a few) he met a great girl named Danielle. When I would talk to him on the phone he would always bring her up, saying she was his best friend. Well a few years later that friendship turned into a marriage. The wedding was beautiful and I cried the whole time. I was honored to be a bridesmaid. The chapel was perfect, as was John adn his bride. The preist was a bit of a laugh...during the ceremony his cell phone went off....they walked out, just married, and through a line of swordsman, and I felt just so happy, proud and full of joy for them. The reception was a blast. Cake in the face and everything. The party continued on at the hotel we were all staying at. Different roooms had diffferent kegs....lots of fun going room to room, meeting family, and making memories I will never forget. They bought a beautiful house. They have 3 dogs (their "babies"). I am so proud of him. I love him with all of my heart and am beyond happy he found his love and his way in life. He deserved nothing less. I love you John.