Old Paratrooper

[brianksain]

Thought of something those here might appreciate:

The day before the D-Day museum was to open (June 5), the wife and I were in New Orleans (both Cajun). We used to go often ...

We were checking out of the hotel (Monteleone) and all of the old veterans and their families were coming in for the grand opening of the museum. VFW hats and all ... the lobby was a crazy place.

There was this one old fella sitting alone on a bench, back to the wall. Members Only jacket, older (but starched) slacks, SHINEY shoes ... snow white hair, huge hands.

He was OLD ... everything about him looked OLD ... except his eyes. They were crystal clear and he was seeing everything that went on in that lobby.

The wife was signing us out at the desk and I walked over and asked if he was a soldier.

"Yep ... 82nd Abn."

I asked if he jumped on D-Day and he stated that he had indeed.

I mentioned that I was from Texas. He was from San Antonio and told me that quite a few of the WWII paratroopers were from Texas.

I mentioned to him also that I noticed that he did not miss much ...

He smiled and said "I noticed that you do not miss much either"

We visited a bit longer, I thanked him for his service and we said goodbye.

You could tell he was much the man in his day. Humbling to sit and visit with him.

Truly a great generation. Memorable visit with a senior warrior.

Just thought I'd share that.