More on Uncle Bud

I spoke with Bud and Delores last evening for 2.5 hours. They were in no hurry to end the conversation. I think they were enjoying the visit as well as the attention.

I forgot the midwestern tradition of the long goodbye. You have mention 3-4 times that you should say good bye before you actually do so or you'll risk an improper sign off.

They mentioned the Emerson Monument. I look for a photo from you Jan.

The planning for this trip I think is better than you first thought, Jan. Staying in the hotel the night before is a good idea since they leave at 5:00 AM. It is a straight through flight to Dulles.

According to Bud they have a full medical staff on board the plane and the bus. Meals are provided on the bus and plane. He said they have his complete medical history on file. Spouses were not allowed to go unless the vet needs assistance so some spouses were making the trip. I guess some guys were not as mobile as Bud. 104 Southwest Iowa vets are making the trip.

I told Bud to sleep on the flight out and back, but I'll bet none of them sleep much - maybe on the way back. I'll guess they chat non-stop with each other relating their war experiences.

Bud gave me a pretty full account of his millitary history. I'll have wait for another time to relay some of it.

Bud was laughing at this: apparently they are supposed to expect Washington Dignitaries to greet them some point during the day. I told told him it was his chance to set those guys straight. He said he just might - none of them had better get him started or he would.

That was about the extent of our conversation regarding the trip. He said HyVee was providing disposable cameras for everyone. Also I think he said your local one-man-radio station was making the trip. Bud was not thrilled about that, "He better not stick that microphone in my face" were his words.


David