Dear John

In 2007, John Tyree lies on the ground, gravely wounded and surrounded by coins. As he reflects on a childhood trip to the U.S. Mint, he connects his fate with a coin and the military, contemplating his life as he drifts into unconsciousness.

Moving back to 2001 in Wilmington, North Carolina, John Tyree enjoys his vacation when he meets Savannah while rescuing her purse from the water. Their chance encounter sparks a deep and passionate romance that blossoms over the next two weeks.

During their romance, Savannah becomes acquainted with John's father, Mr. Tyree, who is obsessed with his coin collection. This connection leads Savannah to suggest that John's father might have high-functioning autism, which causes tension with John.

An upset John confronts Savannah's friend Randy after their argument escalates, leading to an accidental injury of Tim. Filled with remorse, John apologizes to Tim and leaves Savannah a heartfelt note, committing to being together despite their challenges.

As John leaves to serve in the military, the couple's relationship evolves through exchanged letters, filled with hopes for their future. However, the tragic events of September 11 lead John to re-enlist, uncertain about what lies ahead.

After two years of correspondence, John eagerly awaits a letter from Savannah but receives a devastating 'Dear John' letter instead. This revelation of her engagement leads John to burn all her letters, grappling with the loss of their relationship.

Despite his injuries and the encouragement to return home, John makes the difficult choice to re-enlist for an additional four years of service. His dedication to his country keeps him away from Savannah, deepening his emotional struggles.

After learning of his father's serious health condition following a stroke, John hurries to the hospital. There, he reads a letter to his father that echoes his earlier thoughts, revealing his pain and connection with both his father and Savannah.

Following the loss of his father, John returns to Savannah only to discover she is married to Tim. The two have a heartfelt reunion, but John learns that Savannah had to abandon her dream for a children's riding camp due to her husband's illness.

At the hospital, Tim reveals to John that Savannah still loves him and has never forgotten their connection. This revelation leaves John with both hope and a sense of heartbreak as he navigates the complexities of their relationship.

During dinner, John questions Savannah about her silence after all these years. Their conversation reflects their cherished bond, but it ends with a bittersweet farewell when John decides not to pursue a relationship with her.

In a selfless act, John sells most of his father's coin collection to support Tim's treatment, holding on only to the cherished mule coin. The mule becomes a good luck charm for John as he returns to duty.

John receives a letter from Savannah informing him of Tim's passing. The letter ends with the haunting words, 'I'll see you soon, then,' adding another layer of heartache to John's already complicated emotions.

After leaving military life behind, John spots Savannah in a coffee shop. Their eyes meet, and in a moment filled with nostalgia and hope, they share an embrace, leaving the door open for the possibility of rekindling their love.