I didn't know until leadpenny's post that the Governor will be lowering the flags on the statehouse, I can't help but think that Jason would have laughed over all this fuss. :-)
Jason was an intense fellow even when were young. Some people thought he was crazy and avoided him. He wasn't, he was just misunderstood. Those of us that were close to him just knew that Jason didn't trust very easily. If you were his friend there was nothing he wouldn't do for you.
He could have a look on his face that was unsettling and VERY intimidating. We avoided a lot of fights in high school because of that look on his face. People would back off because they didn't know what he would do. We were a little scared of what he would do since he was very overprotective of his friends. He could back up that intimidating look with action and everybody knew it.
When I think back on those times I am just in awe of how cool it was to have a friend like him. I'd be willing to bet that his friends in the Army would have followed him into hell because they knew what we did. If Jason was on your side, you had every right to feel protected. He was as tough as nails.
You have wonderful memories of Jason. They will become invaluable as the months pass. You were blessed with a great friendship. It seems that you had many adventures together. It's nice to be able to fall back on those memories. They will bring a wistful smile to your face as tears buildup. It sounds like the Army was a perfect career for him. It always amazes how people find their way in life. It's so tragic when we lose our finest. It makes me happy that the Military Community and his home State recognize the man of substance that Jason was.
I have a special place in my heart for Army Aviators. I was one, and I was a Warrant Officer. I also identify with Jason's dad. My dad and sister drove from Michigan to Ft. Rucker for my graduation in 1966. They pinned on my wings and my W1 bars. My dad had not been in the military but he burst his buttons any time he bored people with the story of his son, the helicopter pilot. My heart also goes out to Garth for another reason - I have a son in Iraq. Please let the family know they are not alone and that Jason's story has touched an untold number of Americans