The world is missing a great Patriot. Robert was one of those men who loved his country to his core. He took his responsibilities as a citizen of our nation to heart. He voted in every election and made sure that he was informed on the issues and candidates. He knew in his core that he loved his country and that the principals that the USA was founded on are far bigger than any one person, office or season of politics. That at the end of the day, the country was designed to allow change by the people via means of an election. It is idealistic, but that was him.
Many people don't know this, but one of his dreams was to be the Conductor of the President's Own Marine Band. That was what he wanted to do with his career--however, he was ineligible for the military. Given that, he never passed an opportunity to play in or conduct an ensemble that played patriotic music. I wish that I had more video and recordings of him playing.
I am not sure why I share these details other than I think it is important for his dreams to be known to someone other than me.
I loved hearing him play his trumpet and his piano when he played anything, but honestly his rendition of the Star Spangled Banner on trumpet always gave me chills. It saddens me that his trumpet has been silenced way before it ever should have been. I do take it out and polish it because the thought of it being marred by tarnish is far too much for me to even entertain in my brain.
I am finding that words are failing to do justice for me today...to that end, enjoy your celebration today and I will do my best to teach Munchkin all the reverence and respect for our Country that Robert and I would have done together.
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