Saturday, July 19, 2008
My Family and I express our deepest sympathies and thoughts on Grand's passing.
Although I knew Grand perhaps the shortest time of many, to me he was a man of enthusiasm, optimism, great, great strengths and many, many experiences.
In many ways, he bridged the generations - he bridged them well too - and I think he was an inspiration to us all.
Rather ironically, I was at a military veteran's event this past weekend telling a group of World War II veterans about Bill Ennis.
Many of them were heroes in one way or another though; none spoke of their acts of heroism that put them in harm's way, saved lives, and earned them the respect of many. These vets are, were and always will be our Greatest Generation.
I said: "Mr. Ennis would like you guys and I'm sure would have liked to have been out here today."
The most senior of the Vets who was a highly-decorated WWII hero looked me in the eyes and said: "Really? Why would you say that?"
I responded, Well, for one, he's a tough old bird and he's got a heck of a lot of spunk - like you guys. Besides, up until recently, he was mowing his own lawn."
The Major smiled and said;
"Well, when you put it that way boy; he sounds like one of us - you tell him he's welcome in our company anytime."
That is how I will always remember Grand: a smile on his face, bright eyes belying a spark, a love for life and a man who truly loved his Family. He was a welcome presence - anytime.
