Boys, I served as a soldier for 25 years, some of my hardest battles were the ones no one else could see. I learnt courage is not the absence of fear or struggle. Courage is taking the next step when things are difficult, asking for help when you need it and standing beside your mates when they need you.
Fortress 40 will test your strength, determination and resilience, but remember this: strength is not measured by how much you can carry alone. It is measured by the courage to keep going, the courage to speak up and the courage to stand beside someone who is struggling.
When the going gets tough, take one more step. When your mate is struggling, help carry the load. When life feels overwhelming, never be afraid to reach out.
Stay strong, stay connected and leave no one behind.