Written By a Friend

To JPH, A ‘Nam Buddy Lost. 3MAR1952 – 20JUL2020
 
 
When I told your family of your bravery and resolution, you said I was “exaggerating.” When I told your friends how you always balanced conviction with compassion, you said I was “exaggerating.”  
 
On each visit, I told everyone how you saved my life; you said I “was exaggerating.”  
There was NO “exaggeration.” Your wounds were silent witness, confirming it all.    
If it hadn’t been for you, my life would have ended… at age 19…in that green abattoir.  
 
This morning I learned that you are no longer here; I can’t hear your voice and laughter again, can’t make plans to visit. It hurts to know I can’t thank you again and again.  
I will still brag about our friendship. I will still tell what made you special, just as I told your children. I will still be heard enumerating all your qualities and the things I learned from you; I won’t be “exaggerating” my pride in knowing you…that would be impossible.  
(Know what? Your passing has taught me one more thing. I’m NOT too old to cry).  
Go easy, My Brother.  
Thank you.  
Semper Fi,  
Ted
©BonMot 2020