1967

In 1967, my father shipped off to Vietnam for his 1st tour. I was just a kid, 6 years old perhaps. My sister Liz was 3 and Conny was trying to enjoy her 16th birthday (hard to do during such difficult times). He was gone for what seemed like an eternity for a kid. In 1969, he returned from Vietnam, but that year-and-a-half in between left a big void in our lives.

Dad was my hero in life. I'll always strive to be as good of a man as he was, but it may take several lifetimes. However, because of his sacrifices, I have the opportunity to be the dad to my children that he always longed to be to us.

This picture was taken in a diner somewhere near or in Washington D.C. in November 1967. I miss him still.

Much Love Paison, you are still thought of every day by those who love you.

image credit [Conny Culver]