The song, and its accompanying acoustic B-side "I Don't Mind", are from the group's second studio album Empty Days & Sleepless Nights.

The single was released as a 7" vinyl and digital download on February 8, 2011 through Bridge Nine Records.

[1][2] The song "Dear Father" lyrically touches on the struggles of living in a military family during post-World War II America.

During a live performance in Tennessee in 2011, a group of military men in uniform were in the front row singing the song "Dear Father" along with vocalist Derek Archambault with tears streaming down their faces.

Guitarist Jay Maas said, "In the middle of the song, one guy took his dog tags off and put them right in Derek's hand and said 'Thank you'.