some pics

[flaps]

8 nov, 1967, the night before we got commissioned.
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http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5180/5406514690_f4122305ac_z.jpg
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and a day later,
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http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2505/4098528904_185d24039d_z.jpg?zz=1
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an old iwo vet, jack sherwood lives near me on eastern long island. he was wounded after 19 days on the island and did not get medically discharged till 1948. i visit him from time to time. he's still sharp as a tack and when asked about enlisting in the marine corps, he never hesitates with his response,

"I'd do it again in a heartbeat."
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i guess i'd just like to offer some encouragement to you fine you men and would like to wish you the best of luck.

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http://shelterislandreporter.timesreview.com/2010/08/2237/wwii-veteran-checks-one-off-his-bucket-list%E2%80%A9/
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http://digital.timesreview.com/pdfEdition_show_pdf.php?file=tst_03182010_a_25.pdf
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[Bullitt01]

Thank you sir. I've seen your other posts regarding F4's in Vietnam & later going on to fly Tomcats, I can only hope to have a similarly exceptional career. I truly appreciate the blood, sweat, tears, & time you've given for our great country. I report to OCS in May, Semper Fidelis.

 

[flaps]

thank you, bullitt.

i think there's a bit of steve mcqueen in all of us.
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tbs (little creek), 1968
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http://www.flickr.com/photos/29251424@N00/5406525452/sizes/z/in/photostream/
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http://www.flickr.com/photos/29251424@N00/5405921699/sizes/z/in/photostream/
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these days:
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http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5130/5349969797_295d2bc19b.jpg
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http://www.flickr.com/photos/29251424@N00/4942089231/sizes/z/in/photostream/
.
my grandson said to me,

"when i grow up, grandpa, i wanna be just like you."

i replied,

"you can't do both, son."
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http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4077/4888350540_62b2966163_z.jpg