For Unit 2's portfolio item, you will pretend you are a soldier stationed at a frontier fort, and write a letter home. You will read more about your friendly letter portfolio later in the lesson.

Dear Mom and Dad,

I hope this letter finds you both in good health and high spirits. It has been quite a while since I last wrote, and I apologize for the delay. Life at the frontier fort has been both challenging and rewarding, and I wanted to share my experiences with you.

Every day, we soldiers wake up before dawn to begin our duties. The fort is situated in a remote area, surrounded by vast stretches of wilderness. The mornings are usually misty, engulfing the fort in an eerie ambiance. I find solace in the serenity of these early hours, as we prepare ourselves for the day ahead.

One of the most important tasks we undertake is patrolling the perimeter of the fort. It is essential to keep a constant vigilance, as threats can emerge from any direction. The landscape is stunning, with rolling hills and dense forests. Sometimes, we encounter wild animals during our patrols, which adds an element of excitement and danger to our routine.

The camaraderie among the soldiers is extraordinary. We share meals, stories, and hardships together. During our free time, we engage in training exercises to strengthen our skills. The commanding officers ensure that we are well-prepared for any potential conflicts or emergencies. Sometimes, we even organize friendly competitions between different platoons, boosting our morale and fostering team spirit.

Living conditions at the fort are modest but comfortable. We sleep in barracks and share common facilities. The fort's cooks do their best to provide us with nourishing meals, given the limited resources available. We often gather around the campfire in the evenings, sharing jokes and reflecting on the day's events. It is during these moments that we find solace in each other's company, despite the challenges we face.

I must admit that there are moments when I miss the comforts of home. The familiar warmth of your embrace, the delightful aroma of Mom's cooking, and Dad's advice are dearly missed. However, I draw strength from the knowledge that my role here is essential. Our unit's presence helps protect the settlers and maintains peace in this untamed land.

While life at the frontier fort is demanding, it also offers unique opportunities to build character and resilience. Every day, I witness the remarkable courage and dedication displayed by my fellow soldiers. It is an honor to serve alongside them, and I cannot express how proud I am to be part of this noble cause.

Please give my warm regards to everyone at home. I miss you all dearly and look forward to the day when we can reunite. Until then, I will continue to serve with unwavering commitment and devotion.

With heartfelt love,

[Your Name]