Get out there and live and strive to be better, because the life you got it is a gift, so live it!” ~Jocko Willink
Now before I get into the story about the new addition to the Clas Family, “Old Blue”, I have to lead off this reflection with the most significant event that happened in February. Claudia and I celebrated our 18th Year Wedding Anniversary, the Porcelain Anniversary. I have been blessed with a partner in this world whose love and support has brought our family to a place of happiness beyond expectation. I’d surely be a lesser man without Claudia and would likely be spiraling down roads of mediocrity instead of a place of unconditional joy.
Alright, now that the sappy stuff out of the way, I’m still a little teary-eyed, on to the main event … February – what a month! I completed my first jump our of a UH-60 “Blackhawk” helicopter, purchased a new truck, celebrated 18 years with the misses, and met a Medal of Honor recipient. It was an action packed 28 days to say the least.
Let it Hang:
On my recent jump from a perfectly good aircraft, I learned the Shaka, commonly used in the Pacific region as a symbol of peace, is also used when signaling Paratroopers in a helicopter to unhook the retention strap. That strap is the last line of security before you push yourself out of the chopper. Aside from the 30 degree weather, exacerbated by the rotors bringing it down to a cool 15 degrees, the jump was awesome. Even though I did slip the wrong direction and was dragged 10 feet across the field. The experience was one for the books.
Old Blue:
I’m a sucker for a good story, especially when I’m in the market for something new. Claudia and I have been searching for another vehicle to reduce personal mileage on our business truck. After our return to North Carolina from visiting family in Chicago, Feb. 13, we came across an old blue 2002 Chevrolet Silverado Z71. We saw the truck for sale on the side of the interstate for around five thousand. It had 405k miles on it and looked great for the mileage. I told Claudia I was interested and would love to keep it on the road. There’s a large number of country songs dedicated to old pick-ups.
I called the owner and we agreed to meet later that evening for a test drive. The owner, Harold, arrived with his son and I took Old Blue for a ride. I told Harold’s son I was in the service and still active and after the test drive was complete I told Harold I’d let him know. The truck ran strong and I knew there would be some work to keep it on the road, but the truck had an aura about it and like the main character in the movie “Christine” I wanted that truck.
Claudia and I agreed to a set offer for the truck before we talked to Harold. I called Harold that same evening, having told him earlier I would give him an answer by noon the following day, and we got down to the brass tax. I asked him what he would take for the vehicle and Harold countered by saying make him a fair offer. I started at the low end of an offer and to my surprise, Harold told me the offer was fair, but his counter-offer was even lower than what we offered.
Wherever there is a human being; there is an opportunity for kindness.” ~Lucius Annaeus Seneca
Harold informed me he was a Vietnam veteran and liked to take care of his military family when he could. Claudia and I were floored by his response and responded graciously accepting Harold’s offer. We small talked for a bit and firmed up details to complete the transaction. You see when you serve in the military, the people on your left, right, past, and future become an extended family. That common frame of reference is stronger than many people can understand. So no matter what deficiencies Old Blue will have down the road, I see that truck as a brand new vehicle which I have an obligation to take care of until I am properly relieved.
Hero:
On Feb. 28, I had the honor of meeting Master Sgt. Earl Plumlee, a Medal of Honor recipient for actions of heroism performed in Afghanistan in 2013. I rarely get star struck, but meeting someone who has proven they could put the lives others before their own leaves you in awe. The scrutiny to get our Nation’s highest award approved is a significant emotional event for all parties involved.
Everything can be taken from a man but one thing: the last of the human freedoms – to choose one’s attitude in any given set of circumstances.” ~Victor Frankl
Another amazing occurrence which happened during his visit to our headquarters was one of the people involved in processing his MoH was serving in our unit during that period. I was privileged to take a photo of them both, which I’m sure made the day of the officer who played a role in Master Sgt. Plumlee’s well deserved recognition. Being a storyteller has its perks, one of those being to have access to the highest caliber of people. I couldn’t be more proud to wear the uniform after this engagement.
Upward and Onward:
This year has been moving at light speed. I feel like I blinked my eyes after New Year’s and March smacked me in the face. As I look upon the horizon I see my little approaching their birthdays. Dominic will be eight-years-old this month and Brianna will turn six in April. I’m proud of the people they are transforming into. I see their strength and their caring for others guiding the decisions they make on a regular basis and I’m truly impressed. I even appreciate their inquisitive minds asking me what I’m writing when I start on these reflections.
Be the type of a person that no matter where you are, you always add value to the lives of those around you.” ~Professor Jean Jacques Machado
One day, down the road, I hope each of my kids can turn to these entries and see how I was feeling and thinking all those years ago. I’m always down to tell a good story, but there will be a time when I’m not and they will need these small doses of insight to help them through some tough times. I am grateful to be able to live my best life every day. All the best to everyone out there keeping up with the grind. Until next reflection … One Team, One Family! ~Doc