THE WALL OF FACES

A man who would rather be on the floor with the kids instead of talking with the adults inspired me. I am now a veteran of the USAF and Desert Storm (91-92)with his inspiration pushing me forward. I attended a Rally For America last Friday and missed him once again.

Larry was my cousin, but more like a brother. I was always under foot, always in his stuff, always wanting to do what he did. I loved him with the carelessness of a youngster--thinking he'd always be there, always be the older one. The pain of his death is still sharp, can still bring tears. But the memory of laughter at his antics, his flat-top haircut stiffened with Butch Wax, his goofy smile in every holiday picture --luckily those memories are still sharp, too. I hope he knew how much he was treasured.

Larry was my high school sweetheart, my best friend, the love of my life, my husband. He was a kind and gentle person who truly loved his family, friends, and his country. He will always be in my heart.

His family and mine were members of 66th St. Baptist Church. I was only 9 yrs old in '69 but I remember how everybody in the church grieved his loss. So young. I think he was either just married or engaged.

Although it's been 39 years since our years in high school, I still remember Larry's gentle smile and warm laugh that was always present in our homeroom. He stood for all that's good in this world -- love, honor, truth, faith, friendship and family.
He will always be missed and remembered.