TAPS
RIP
Ken, Vietnam Veteran
I never met him in person. We corresponded via email for years.
He was on the computer a lot, read the FR stuff I sent him constantly....and just as constantly he forwarded it to his considerable e-mailing list across the country.
During the last presidential campaign, Senator Fred Thompson was scheduled to make a campaign speech at a local banquet facility near where Ken and I live. I decided to go to the dinner.
Ken admired Senator Thompson and shyly asked me if it were possible could I get an autograph. Of course, I was happy to say "yes, I'd love to".
Easier said than done. After Sen. Thompson was finished, he quickly walked through the crowd to the lobby to leave the building. I knew he would have to leave through the back of the facility where his campaign bus was waiting. I grabbed a pen and a program from the table, sprinted out to the lobby, raced outside, sprinted the length of the parking lot (all in high heels), turned the corner at the back of the building....and there in the dark, I saw Fred just stepping out the back door surrounded by security and aides, no one else back there but me. His lit bus was the only light....and the vehicle's motor was running to take off as soon as he boarded.
What to do? I called out to the walking Senator...."SENATOR, CAN I HAVE AN AUTOGRAPH FOR A DISABLED VET????"
Fred stopped dead in his tracks. He beckoned me to come through his little entourage which parted so I could approach him.
Fred had a pleasant word for me as we shook hands. He asked for the name of my friend. I told him and he wrote his autograph along with a nice little personal note on the program. I thanked him profusely....and off he went into his bus and I waved at him as it pulled away in the warm, dark Florida night.
This is how I'll remember Ken - happy with his autograph, happy to be a conservative and happy to have served his beloved country in time of war.
I'll also remember Senator Fred Thompson for his graciousness in taking the time to pen a sentiment to someone he didn't know but who admired and supported him in his quest for the presidency.
Rest in peace, Ken. I'll miss you, friend.
Leni
Thank you very much, Leni.
Rest in peace, Ken. Godspeed.
Wonderful story about Fred Thompson and your online friend Ken. I’m so sorry he’s passed from this life, but you sure brought him happiness. May God hold him dear. God bless you, dearest Leni. Thanks very much for telling us about Ken and thanks very much for your donation in honor of Ken.
I remember that night, Leni, and when you shared with me about what happened.
God will welcome Ken home and send strength to his family.
Rest in Peace Dear Ken.
Prayers for Ken and his relatives.
So sorry MinuteGal for the loss of your friend who meant so much to you.
We lost a good soldier and a gentle man.
God Bless.
God rest the soul of a hero. Thanks for telling this sweet story, Leni!
RIP
Ken, Vietnam Veteran