MEETING: A pearl of a man

On July 15, my wife and I, along with our friends, one being an Air Force Vet, were at a local Dairy Queen. We met a person few people get to meet anymore.

While we were there, this older guy was sitting in a booth next to us. I noticed his hat, and on it said, “Pearl Harbor Survivor.” I did not know what to say to him, except to shake his hand.

He looked to be about 80, but in reality, he was 97. What an honor to be able to shake this man’s hand. I asked him where he was stationed over there. He said he was on Ford Island. He said it really upset him, because on that fateful day, he was just going down a ladder to get his breakfast, when all hell broke loose. He said he never did get his breakfast.

I would have liked to talk more to him, but we all had to get going. I never got his name, but again, if you see one of the survivors of Pearl Harbor, be sure to shake his hand. You will know what I mean about the feeling.

So, shipmate, I don’t know what your name is, but thanks for being there, and welcome home.

I hope you have fair winds and following seas for the rest of your life.

RICHARD LAMBERT

RMC USN RET

Athol