by
Neil Appleby
Much has happened since I last wrote to you in this column.
In early November I completed a short stay at the blind center
in West Haven, Connecticut. The outstanding teaching staff gave
me a low vision tune-up. My last tune-up had been 17 years earlier!
Time flies. I acquired some new high tech equipment that will
help me personally. The equipment will also allow me to better
serve you and your families. I’ll be demonstrating the wares
as I travel around the country.
On Veterans Day, accompanied by my daughter, Betsy, I was privileged
to represent BVA at a White House breakfast. We had a photo taken
with President Bush, and many cabinet officers greeted us in the
receiving line. Also in attendance were young soldiers newly wounded
in the Iraq War. I was particularly impressed with one soldier
who was wearing a prosthetic leg. Amazingly, he remains on full
active duty at Fort Benning.
Later in the morning we attended Veterans Day ceremonies at Arlington
National Cemetery. We witnessed the Presidential wreath laying
and joined other national VSO leaders on the stage for the President’s
address. The procession of colors in the amphitheater, before
and after the ceremony, was awesome. It was probably the largest
display of patriotism I have seen.
Under a dark, drizzly sky, BVA Auxiliary National President Hazel
Compton and I placed a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknowns. What
an honor! My pulse raced as we traversed the long rubber mat approaching
the Tomb. I think we marched a little taller during that short
moment.
Thank you for the opportunity to represent BVA as we saluted
our fallen heroes.
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