Chris’ Birthday

“There is no love on earth greater than that of a father for his son.” — Unknown

Chris is our second son, but his birthday comes before his older brother’s birthday which follows in 12 days.

Like his older brother, he was born while I was in the Navy, deployed to our second tour in Vietnam. That was the tour that wound up being an around the world tour. It probably added a couple of weeks to our time before getting home.

Chris was born about two weeks before our ship arrived home in Mayport, Florida. He was born at a local hospital so he, Betty and Wade were waiting for us when we arrived. If we had come straight home instead of showing the flag around the world I might have been home for his birth.

I did get to see some pictures of him and Betty before getting home. One of our stops was in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. A fellow officer’s wife met the ship there and brought some pictures for me to see. It was great to see them and made me want to see them even more.

Chris’ path through life has had its ups and downs, but I have always been proud of him, the man he is, and how he has handled himself throughout his life. He has also been smart enough to marry Deborah as she brings great joy and fun into his life and ours.

He loves to travel and has a great interest in finding interesting, unique places to eat and drink. He has shared his knowledge often with us.

He’s a good son, a good husband and a good man.

All my love and best wishes for a blessed and joy filled birthday for you and Deborah.

Love, Dad