Yes, it is good news. Piper, of course, is learning new stuff every day, and I wish I could be closer to watch her grow!
Quote of the day: “The bravest are surely those who have the clearest vision of what is before them, glory and danger alike, and yet notwithstanding, go out to meet it.” — Thucydides, Greek historian, author (460-395 B.C.)
I have spent the last 8 months working in a nursing home. I got quite close to several of my residents and their families. One of these was a Pearl Harbor Survivor. I am also a Patriot Guard Rider. During the "Journey of Old Glory" early this year, a flag that had been flown over the Arizona was sent on a journey across the US, making stops at important military cemeteries and battle fields, and they sought to bring the Pearl Harbor Survivors from each state to the location and give them recognition and a THANK YOU, when the flag raising ceremony occurred in their state. My friend was not well enough to make the trip across the state. Upon hearing that, the local and State PGR captains made an extra effort and saw to it that a certificate was printed, framed and then some of our PGR-ers presented it to him a few months ago. They were hoping to get all the survivors in the state together for Memorial Day, however, he will not make it.
::tearfully:: He passed away last weekend. The family asked Patriot Guard to hold flag line for the funeral. We did. They also asked us to be pall bearers. We did. While it was an honor for me, it was also one of the hardest things I have done in my life!! He will be missed!!
He shared very little with his family, especially his kids, about his experience in Pearl Harbor. Last fall, he started to tell me things. He was there as a mere kid, and when he talked about it I could see he was reliving it all. He told me he was never free from it a day in his life. Thank you, Len, for your service to our country. May you rest in peace. You are missed! It was an honor being a part of your life. You are now free of the pain in your heart, mind and body. Save a dance for me, Len!