Who gave their all...
This, to me, is a special time. I thank God for those men and women who gave us this country, and all we enjoy here. On the canopy of my 9A is a memorial to Capt. William Omer Burkett, a close friend. I visited his grave a few hours ago. He flew an O-2 spotter plane.
Those who made it through give us an insight into what it was like. Each year at Oshkosh, I make it a point to visit with the Tuskegee Airmen. In 2011 I gave a copy of my book to Dr. Welton Taylor, one of only two Tuskegee Airmen to fly L-4s. He promised me a copy of his book, once it was published. In 2102, I stopped by the booth. He looked up, and without hesitation he said, "Bob! I owe you a book." He was 91 years old, and straight as an arrow. He went on to become head of the World Health Organization, after the war. Sadly, 2012 was his last year. I will miss seeing him.
Those who made it through, and especially those who did not, should be very special to us all. Take a moment and pray for our military, their families, and for the spirit that convicts men and women to offer their all. And thank God for what they have left us.
Bob Kelly
Veteran, and Silent Warrior