Regardless where we all find ourselves now, generally there has been one or two
individuals in our lives that pretty much molded us into who we are today; our drive,
determination, perseverance, etc.

Here’s where we can recognize and pay homage to them… include photos
if you can and a brief summary of their impact on you. Let’s celebrate OUR heroes! <:-)
--

My Grandfather (Grandaddy as I called him) was the one who nurtured my creativity.; A Master
Carpenter and woodworker, he recognized the budding talent and convinced me there was no
limit to what I could build/make with my hands.

SFC Darrell Easter, my Senior Drill Instructor at Ft. Leonard Wood, MO.
Sgt Easter had a boyish appearance but was as hardcore as they come; he had served four tours
in Vietnam, which included being a POW for about 10 hours, until he escaped from his captors
while being transported to Hanoi… he was “on his own” in the jungles trying to get back to some
friendlies, with NVA patrols hot on his trail, His family had already been notified he was MIA and
presumed dead, but miraculously evaded the patrols and turned up at Camp Evans, a few miles
NW of Hue, THREE WEEKS after being captured!
He instilled in me exactly what “Improvise, Adapt and Overcome” means, and how that
regardless of the odds, you NEVER give up!

PS: Also, to this day I’m afraid if I say the word “GUN”, Sgt. Easter would pop out of the bushes
and smack me across the head!! <;-)