Friday, August 4, 2017
W.R. or Bill as I knew him back in 1968 while we were in the U.S. Army was one of the finest individuals I met. He was my bunk mate for three months at Ft. Benning, GA. After our training I never saw him again. For many years, I tried to find him. He told me he was from Iowa. So, that is where I spent all my efforts, with frustration. Then, one day, another army buddy to whom I express my frustration, called and said, "Bob, I emailed four names, addresses and telephone numbers. I am pretty sure Chestnut has got to be one of them."
Wow! I called the third on on the list first. It was Bill. We talked as if we saw each other just yesterday. We were on the phone well over an hour and thirty minutes. We exchanged a few emails. In August 2014, I thought I would drive out there and visit him. But, I very unfortunately changed my mind. I so regret having done that.
Bill, I missed you all these years. May God bless you and rest your soul. May He, also, ease the the pain of your loss to all of your family.
You are on fine and honorable man. And, I am better for having stood in your shadow, though far too briefly. With love, my brother. With love, I say good bye.
