Happy Veterans Day

Thanks Applebee's for rememering those who served and are still serving the cause of freedom.

I was able to meet with some friends at an Applebee's to share a lunch and swap war stories. They are Mark Smith, USA; Jim "Hollywood" Fleming, USN; Steve Seligman, USA; and me, USAF. These guys are the best. We all served at different times in different branches but one thing still in common, we served and are proud that we did our part to preserve our freedoms. It was refreshing to see a major corporation like Applebee's make such a public display of their apprecitation and patriotism by giving us free entre`s on Veterans Day.

We then took off on a little impromptu road trip to Kemah. We lost Hollywood along the way but three of us made it to the Kemah Boardwalk. We sure enjoyed the beautiful weather and the riding conditions were the best. We took the long way across FM2100, FM1942 and then straight down Hgwy 146 to Kemah.

Mark Smith, Steve Seligman and me on the plaza in front of the hotel. There were a few people there but the place was mostly deserted. Not all of the shops were open either but the restaurants and bars were along with the rides. We recieved welcomes from complete strangers several times today acknowledging our service and offering thanks. We also met a man right after this picture who flew C47's back in the 40's. What an honor.

I consider it a priviledge to have served and want to thank every veteran who has served along with me and those who are still serving, especially my son who is in Afghanistan at this moment. Needless to say I'm a proud father and I salute him and all who stand in the gap for us here at home. I also want to remember the fallen. They have given their all for our freedoms and this great country would not be here today if it were not for the fighting men and women of our armed forces.

otw