Ode to the People who have influenced my life the most To a young World War Two Paratrooper named, Bobbie. To two lifelong friends, named Johnny and Dave, whom I admired and tried to emulate. To a young girl named Patricia, who I was in love with at the tender age of sixteen. To Officers and sergeants of the USAF, especially to Sergeants, Warren E. Oliff, Tippits, and Hiett, heroes all, who influenced my Air Force career. To a young Frenchman named Christian Fenot, whose determination and work ethic still amaze me. To my loving son Johnnie, who didn’t know what the term, “I can’t” meant. To my daughter Monique, who is as talented as she is beautiful. To my Grandson Anthony, who has been a blessing in my life. To Edger Allen Poe, who inspired my darkest poetry. To the last lion, General Curtis LeMay, the last real risk taker and decision maker in the USAF. Last, but not least, my darling wife, Wanda, whom I love beyond words and has brought me true happiness in my defining years of life. What more could a man ask for? My core values… I have tried to live by; honesty, treat other as I would have them treat me, Live and let live, a true sense of patriotism, let no man tread on me, and the ability to laugh at myself. The most memorable hour in my life…2 am, 21st day of November 1965. (A few minutes on this day, changed my life forever.)
