Derrick Leaves for the US Army

Over 100 of Derrick's family and friends gathered last Saturday evening at Simsbury's Coon Club to say goodbye to him. He left the next day to be sworn into the United States Army at Westover Airforce Base in Massachusetts before proceeding to Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri for 10 weeks of basic training. Upon completion, he will progress to Advanced Infantry Training (AIT) and ultimately Jump School at Fort Benning, Georgia before joining the 82nd Airborne's Rangers.

Susan and I provided our home made pizza for the event. It took most of the day, but we were able to provide sheets of Cheeseburger, Barbeque Chicken and Roasted Red Pepper for the event. In the spirit of the Coon Club, a hunter's getaway, there was also Southern Barbeque and a roast leg of venison grilled over an open flame. A good time was had by all, except for my belt which suffered repeated assaults as it was loosened throughout the night to cope with all of the food.

Derrick, Erick, Gavin and Fred had really become the four Amigos over the past year, doing everything together. Derrick was in many ways like a third son to us. In fact, he joined us on our August trip to the Jillson Cottage in Empire, Michigan. A polite, respectful young man, we wish him the best and will hold him in our thoughts and prayers throughout training and his eventual deployment.

Gavin and Erick have not rushed down to the recruiter to join up and follow Derrick. They are both continuing in their present course at Tunxis Community College. More to come.