Honor and Remember Across America

August 7, 2010

Last night the truck shop called and informed me that they could not find any problems with the seals of the transmission. They tried for three hours to duplicate the leaks and finally came to the conclusion that I must have overheated and the fluid boiled out of the breather. Makes me a bit uneasy but I have driven it all morning and it seems to be fine. Go figure. I will count my blessings and the prayers for favor and move on.

Updated pictures today so there should be some nice ones to look at in our gallery. Still resting the sore back. Sure glad we had friends in Pocatello, they were a God send.

Tomorrow: God willing, head to Boise for an interview and Gold Star picnic.

Blessings, George

August 6, 2010

Today after a fitful night is a 7 hour travel day to Boise for the weekend.  I have been missing everyone back home as its been two months since I left. However today I pick up my wife from the airport and she will join me for the next three weeks. Sunday a friend also will join us and relieve me of driving through the next 3 states.  This will give me much needed rest for my still sore back and the opportunity to have some additional help and companionship as the miles lengthen. There are still 3 months ahead and many many adventures to come.

Bad news, about halfway to Boise in Pocatello, ID the transmission seals blew and fluid is pouring out underneath. Two positive things from this, one I have a friend from my past who lives in this town and he has gotten me to a CAT truck shop. They are looking into the problem now. Please pray that this setback can be quickly solved. Going to take some overtime but I have a picnic Sunday and a meeting in the governors office Monday morning I must march on.

Tomorrow: Down day, waiting on RV, resting with friends, catching up on administration.

Needs: Prayer and resources

Blessings, George

August 5, 2010

Woke up at 530am this morning to conduct my weekly interview with Tony Macrini on WNIS back in Norfolk, VA. Tony has become a great friend as he has embraced my vision and helped to get us as much awareness as possible. Every Thursday morning on WNIS at 730 eastern, listen online if you can.

Today was another special day in that a flag presentation was planned for 10am in the Utah state capitol. I was getting nervous a bit because our flag was shipped and supposed to arrive Wednesday but hadn’t.  With our ceremony beginning at 10am the flag did arrive at 9:58. Whew. This is a very beautiful rotunda and chairs with a podium were all set up to begin. We had many Gold Star families in attendance as well as representatives from the community. Just before we were ready to begin we got word that the governor would participate. I will tell you that this made a huge difference to the GSFs and when he came out spoke about 20 minutes on honor and sacrifice.  The governor signed my pledge book and had to move forward in his day. It was an honor for us to have him participate. Thank you to Rep Kerry Gibson for inviting him out.

I was able to share my message of remembrance to the crowd and then the most important presentation of a personalized flag to the Rougle family in honor of SSG Larry Rougle, to his  mom and dad, his wife and to his precious daughter Carmen. This is what it is all about. I have to say the back held up until the end and then hit me hard. Much more ice needed. I am making people uncomfortable around me.

Erin Julian was also in attendance all the way from Michigan with daughter Liz in tow. It was great to see her again since it had been a month from the MI ceremony. Afterwards her extended  family took me to lunch and now I am settling in for the night in a hotel, with ICE.

Tomorrow: The 7 hour long drive to Boise, ID

PS. I have driven nearly 12,000 miles, so the 17 I predicted will most like turn toward 25,ooo, circling the globe when I reach Arlington.

Blessings, George

August 4, 2010

Today I woke up again in pain, gearing up with plenty of ice as I have to make a 7 hour trip to Utah. Once I reach the Salt lake area this evening there is a planned picnic with several Gold Star families at the local american Legion Post in Clearfield. Gold Star dad Bob Lehmiller has been preparing for my visit as well as Tim and Fay Dolan.

I have to tell you that the drive thru Utah was incredible. Most was long and flat but the scenery breathtaking. I will put some windshield pictures out on the gallery in a few days. (these are pictures I take thru my windshield at 70 mph while whining in pain and steering :)) The terrain was ever changing, going from barren rock to sweeping green valleys. My only regret was that I had to experience the ride while driving, unable to completely absorb the entire landscape. It was some amazing country.

I did finally make it and in fairly decent shape, I tried to stop a couple of times to stretch best I could. There was a small group for the picnic and then I retired to straighten my back and prepare for tomorrow.  Parked the Beast in the American Legion parking lot and slept in it that night. By the way the Post there has an incredible memorial in there building for our fallen. if you get by there, look them up.

Three very notable events happenned today as well. First Tony’s daughter Ava turned 5! Happy Birthday Ava from Papa! Second the governor of NC offically signed a bill making Honor and Remember their state symbol of remembrance. Cant wait for my visit there! Third today a major article came out in Stars and Stripes newspaper.

http://www.stripes.com/news/father-who-lost-son-to-war-hopes-to-make-flag-lasting-symbol-1.113319
http://charlotte.news14.com/content/628886/governor-signs-bills-to-help-military-families

Tomorrow: Personalized Flag presentation at state capitol.

Needs: Back still in major pain.

Blessings, George

August 3, 2010

This morning was a drive day, 6 hours to Grand Junction. Unfortunately before I left I twisted my back pretty badly. With people waiting at the next stop I had to press on. The drive, besides the muscle spasms was spectacular, a long drive over the Rocky Mts, through Vail and plenty of 30 mile an hour hills. I called ahead to a friend to try and find me a doctor and he was able to make an appt for me at 1pm. I arrived at exactly 1pm, how about that. After some tweaking and prodding and pushing I limped out needing to keep it iced and braced.

Wendy Hoffman the president of the Blue Star Mothers organization was hosting a lunch meet and greet for me at the local Village Inn. It was a very meaningful time with the moms and wives there as we shared stories of the road and our loved ones. Their convention is coming up on the 10th and I will be just missing it.  We also had a visit from two local TV stations and the newspaper. Perhaps we will get some decent coverage.
The back is still giving me heck so I am doing alot of standing.

I was invited to stay at Rep Steve Kings residence for the evening so a quiet, restful and ice packed night was in my future.

Tomorrow: Long 6 hour drive ahead to Salt Lake City.

Needs: Prayer for the back.

Blessings, George

August 2, 2010

Today will show to be an incredibly busy and rewarding day. I began with an interview in Denver at radio station KEZW an Entercom station.  Very gracious and patriotic host Pat Mcnulty. We had a great chat about the mission and was able to share for several minutes with their listening audience. Will be receiving continuous support from them as they will mention the mission and keep it top of mind.

After the interview I slipped into a quiet room at the studio there  where I was able to do a Skype update with CBN news producer Charlene Israel. They have been following my progress and will be broadcasting the progress over the national airwaves sometime tomorrow.  Thanks to CBN for believing that this cause and mission deserves some media attention.

http://www.cbn.com/cbnnews/us/2010/June/Honor-and-Remember-Tour-Kicks-Off-in-Va/

I headed quickly then to the state capitol where I had a scheduled meeting with Governor Ritter. Myself along with two Gold Star mothers, Nancy and Lona along as well as Senator Kopp and Rep King, where in attendance. I was able to share the mission and present a flag officially to the governor. Unbeknown-st to me the governor had a gift. A proclamation declaring today August 2  as Honor and Remember day in Colorado. This was extremely humbling as this became our third official day since the trip began. We spent about 30 minutes speaking with the governor about our sons and his travels to Iraq. It was an honor to have him sign our pledge and add him to our supporters.

Nancy. Lona and I then drove 60 miles to Evergreen where we met at the home of Gertrude Moinester. Gertrude had lost her hero son Robert in Vietnam in 1968.  We visited with her and her husband of 68 years listening to wonderful stories of how her son lived and served. He was a decorated hero and they Navy named a ship after him. During our visit I presented her with a personalized flag. This was the most rewarding moment of the day to be able to bring tribute to her son by name after 42 years. A truley dear and precious moment.

Driving back to Denver and then to Longmont for the night with the Andersons!

Tomorrow: Drive to Grand Junction, CO for an overnight stay and visit with Blue and Gold Star families.

Blessings, George

August 1, 2010

Rest, Laundry and an escorted tour of the United States Air Force Academy.

Tomorrow: Radio Interview, meeting with the governor and state legislators and personalized flag presentation to Gold Star Vietnam mother.

Blessings,  George

July 31, 2010

Last night I had a wonderful visit at the home of Deb and Rick Anderson, They had lost their son Christopher in Iraq in December 2006. It is amazing how we are able to connect as families with a common bond. And I am humbled to be able to break bread with them.

Up early for the Longmont town parade. I was invited to participate and join with the Purple Heart of Longmont on the parade route. It was a true honor to be endorsed by this organization and be included in their float. The town all came out in numbers and it was inspiring to be a part of the days  event. We were able to pass out cards along the way. The American legion were also there and in full support of our mission.

I headed to Colorado Springs for a two hour drive, after lunch, to connect with Nancy Powell. Nancy had been preparing for my visit and had planned a Gold Star mothers picnic this evening. The event was held at Iron Horse Park at Ft Carson. It was a great time of sharing and tears as we all got to know each other and learn more about each others sons. State senator Kopp was also in attendance and I was able to passionately share my mission with my growing family. During this time I presented a surprise personalized flag to Mrs Lona Bader in honor of her son, SSG Daniel Bader, KIA 11-02-03.  I met some great women who are passionate about remembering and also learned more about the awesome traveling lost heroes quilt.

http://heart2hand4art.com/lostheroesartquilt/firstpage.htm

That evening got some much needed rest. Must be the change in altitude.

Tomorrow: No Church scheduled, Tour of US Air Force Academy.

Needs: Places to stay along the way from Boulder, CO to Helena, MT

Blessings, George

July 30, 2010

This morning Mandy fixed a filing breakfast and I headed down to my early meeting with the governor’s staff. they were very receptive and gave me suggestions as to who I should follow up with in the legislature. At 10 am there was a scheduled ceremony at the local Elks Lodge. There I presented personalized flags to the families of LCpl Chance Phelps and SPC Jonn Edmunds. I was grateful for the 0pportunity to share the message with the families and the those that attended. We did have news coverage and I hope that the word gets out locally.

http://www.kgwn.tv/story.aspx?ID=4352&Cat=2

This happened to be the week of Frontier days with many activities, concerts and the largest rodeo in the world. Needless to say the town was buzzing with parades and pancake breakfasts. I was told that in order to meet the governor I would have to track him down at the rodeo. I hadn’t driven 11,000 miles to miss the man by a sporting event a few miles away so off I went. Another God thing as I was able to accomplish two things, my very first cowboy rodeo and a meeting with the governor of Wyoming. he was very gracious and enthusiastically embrace my mission. I am extremely grateful for the opportunities I have been given and the open doors to so many.

Moving on in my day I had planned meetings with US Senator Enzi and state senator Johnson. Both men warmly welcomed my mission and will be pursuing support in the months ahead. This was a packed day with success at every stop. I do pray that soon the Gold Star families will see Honor and Remember flying in this state.

I have been invited to stay with the Anderson family in Longmont and began the 2 hour drive south.

Tomorrow: Longmont parade and Gold Star family picnic.

Blessings, George

July 29, 2010

Travel day, 7 hours to Cheyenne, Wyoming. Ended up by invitation at the house of Mandy and John Estes, cousin to Chance Phelps. John helped me get my bearings for the morning and I went down for the count after a long long day.

Tomorrow: Flag presentations and legislative visit.

Blessings, George

July 28, 2010  Wednesday

Dennis Edwards, the leader of the American Legion riders post 22, Rapid City, had begun planning my day the moment we met. He wanted to be sure that I had the best opportunity to share the message in the most places. Needless to say, today was packed. The morning began with a breakfast with a state senator and two delegates, all of which gave me their full support on moving Honor and Remember forward in SD. From there we were invited to a Columbarium dedication at the state veteran’s cemetery again escorted by the ALR with PGR in attendance.

From there I had a scheduled interview at Post 22 with the local Fox news station. Also I needed to have the rear end of the RV looked at before I started losing pieces. This was taken to Newmiller’s truck garage and they pieced it back together, best they could with short notice, and at no charge by the way.

Next I was escorted to the office of the Adjutant general, MG Doohan. Where I was very warmly welcomed and the message supported 100%. I was pleased to find out that the generals wife was significantly involved in keeping the memories of the SD Gold Star families alive.

Later that afternoon, I was able to meet Lt Governor Dugard at a special event and received his support. He is currently running for Governor.

This evening I was able to speak at the American Legion meeting to their membership and received overwhelming endorsement. I have met so many wonderful people in Rapid City and am extremely appreciative that out of a state that i anticipated nothing planned came an incredible collection of new friends and memories. Thanks to Dennis, John, Lance, Ed, Dick, Marsella and all of AL Post 22.

Tomorrow: Travel day, 7 hours to Cheyenne, Wyoming.

Needs: Place to stay in Cheyenne overnight.

Blessings, George

July 27, 2010   Tuesday

This morning I was escorted by my four friends, Dennis, John, Dick and Ed to the statehouse. I have to pause and let you know that two things that happened before we arrived were that when I pulled into Bob’s Sinclair gas station to fill up, Bob would not let me pay and he donated the $100 bill. Second as I was fully elated, as I pulled out I sideswiped a concrete pile on. Happy/sad, sometimes you have to laugh at your own stupidity. The left rear compartment will now have to repaired.

At the capitol I was able to meet with the governors staff as well as one of the chief councils there. We were given some suggestions as to next steps and prepared to move on to Rapid City. Before leaving I was able to give an interview to Emily of the Capitol Journal.

http://m.capjournal.com/articles/2010/07/28/mobile/news/doc4c4fafa483a62004991759.txt

With escort ahead we proceeded to our next destination, Rapid City. It was our plan to get there in enough time to meet up with other riders and make it for the evening light show at Mt Rushmore. I have never been to SD before and the though of seeing that magnificent sculpture would be a highlight for me.

Sure enough it all fell into place as we rolled up in SD, rested for a bit, planned for Wednesday and rode into the Black Hills toward Rushmore. Rushmore was an incredible accomplishment and we were able to ride right up the mountain. At the top we parked the beast in front of the entrance and  handed out brochures, talking to many of the visitors. The program and light show was spectacular and shared a great moment of patriotism with all. I will be staying the night in Sturgis with new friends John and Jane.

Tomorrow: Huge day planned out of the ashes.

Blessings, George

July 26, 2010   Monday

Today was the scheduled personalized flag presentation at the state capitol for 130pm. I was called first thing this morning by the local news and drove down early to the statehouse for an interview. Following the interview, which is posted below, Reggie and I went to visit his local state senator Tracy Potter. Since the legislature is out of session, we needed to reach out individually. We then made it over to Delegate George Keiser’s office and I felt as if we had North Dakota well in hand. It was time for the ceremony and we headed to the Pioneer room.

I was truly humbled as we were met with a flag line of PGR inside the entrance of the room. Inside were many Gold Star families and friends as well as local lawmakers, veterans  and military. It was wonderful to spend time with the families and get to know them a little and learn more about their sons. It is always my honor to add more great people to my list of friends. Just before the ceremony who should arrive but the governor himself. We had been told he was unavailable but his schedule shifted and he honored these families by participating.

The Governor had some inspiring words for the group and he mentioned each Gold Star family and their sons by name. Afterwords Col Wabdama also spoke and Sen Tracy Potter presented me with a special state flag that was flown over the capitol on the day of the memorial dedication of the GWOT on 9/11 last year. It was also flown on a motorcycle for the veterans ride on that day. This was a very special flag owned by Reggie and Pam and will be treasured.

The Governor joined me by reading the certificate and the special personalized flag presentation was made to Dina and Dennis Ferderer in tribute to their son DJ. It was my honor to reach out and touch the lives of this precious family and I hope that others in this state will soon be honored.

Here is some of the coverage from the weekend in North Dakota.

http://www.bismarcktribune.com/news/local/article_aa6fff24-904b-11df-994f-001cc4c002e0.html

http://www.kxnet.com/video.asp?ArticleId=607309&VideoId=37981

http://www.kqcd.com/News_Stories.asp?news=41805

After the ceremony headed to the next stop Pierre, CD. Along the 4 hour route a very large rock tried to make it way into the drivers side windshield. A softball size fracture that I will need to fix very soon.

A few days ago I was contacted by Lance, an American Legion Rider in South Dakota. He asked me about my route thru the state and invited me to come to Rapid City on my way to Cheyenne.  Subsequently. I had little planned in Pierre so decided to take him up on the offer. yesterday Dennis Edwards called from the ALRs and said they were riding up to Pierre to escort me to Rapid City. This was a 4 hour drive for them.  So tonight when I pulled into the state capitol of SD, four american legion riders were there to greet me. These 4 would become very close friends as they began to plan my visit for the next 36 hours.  Overnighted in the parking lot of the comfort inn.

Tomorrow: Visit state capitol of South Dakota

Blessings, George

July 25, 2010

Today starts off with an opportunity to speak at a local church Solomon’s Rest. A very moving worship and a supportive congregation as I was able to again share the vision as God gave it to me.  ….

This afternoon I actually figured out how to get water into and out of the RV.  I felt pretty proud of this first step and thank my friend Eugene for his invaluable guidance. Chillin the rest of the afternoon and should be doing 143 different things, but I wont.

Tomorrow: Presentation at the ND state capitol, Pioneer room 1:30.  Join us. On to Pierre, SD later that afternoon.

Blessings, George

July 24, 2010  Saturday

Woke up to a beautiful sunrise over the campground and the incredible view of the North Dakota skyline. The  plan for today is a Fallen Hero ride to the GWOT memorial and the State Veterans Cemetery. The ride was graciously arranged by Reggie and Pam Treib and sponsored by ABATE of ND (American Bikers Aiming Toward Education) who partnered with us to help get our message out. Once again I was able to borrow a motorcycle, “Fat Boy” Harley, and rode along with the group on this very emotional 2 hour trip. The group was mostly made up of CMA, Christian Motorcycle Assoc., and ABATE members here. I met some great people and the Cemetery was an awesome tribute. While there I met David and he took me to his WWII hero dads gravesite and I also was able to visit the grave of the Dennis Ferderer whose family will receive a personalized flag on Monday. I know that CBS KX tv did an interview but haven’t been able to find it online.

We ended our ride at the ABATE center where a color guard was waiting and a outdoor cookout. I was able to share the message of the journey to the very supportive group. I know that Janet, Reggie and Pam this message will grow in this area.

Later in the evening there was a ride, picnic and concert being organized about 30 miles south with about 300 bikers. Janet arranged for me to speak there so we packed up and made it to the event about 9pm.  We pulled our wrapped RV right up to the stage for the best exposure. There was a very large crowd spread out over a picnic area and campground site so with microphone in hand I  gathered everyone together and tried to get some semblance of order. Once I began there was complete silence as the crowd listened intently to my story. I have to say this was very satisfying to me as the message was completely embraced and the show of the support overwhelming.  This was truly small town america and reminded me of Lisbon, MD from what seems like ages ago.

It was a late night back to the campground, but sleep did come to close a terrific day.

Tomorrow: Church speaking, RV cleaning, some general relaxation.

Blessings, George