In honor of Air Force Veteran, Howard County Commissioner and my friend, Mr. Paul Wyman. I want to tell a story that a lot of people do not know... The 1st photo you see is me as I sat in the family limousine that took us to the cemetery for Neil’s graveside service. What you don’t see is the person driving us. Weeks before the funeral I met Jeff Stout at Oakbrook Church to coordinate Neil’s funeral service. Much to my surprise Paul, who I had known prior to this, came in and told me that he would be my escort during this time! I had no idea Paul ever drove for Jeff. One of the days that followed involved a ride to Kokomo Airport where our family and close friends were led into a hanger where we privately waited for the airplane that flew in Neil’s casket. As we exited the hanger and returned to the car I received the first of what I now refer to as a “Neil Giggle”. Once everyone was in their cars and the casket had been placed into the hearse Paul “attempted” to start our car. Attempted.....because the battery was dead! Paul didn’t find much humor in it and the look of horror on his face is something I will never forget. What he doesn’t know is before that moment I was close to losing it! The experience of watching that casket draped in a flag come off of that plane was almost too much for me! I needed that “Neil Giggle” in that moment! After the funeral service Paul escorted me outside and put me in the front seat of the car for a reason I wasn’t sure of at first. As we made our way turning left on Dixon Road he grabbed my hand and as I look over at him tears were streaming down his face. As we came closer to the intersection of Dixon and Alto all you could see was this huge flag draping down and waving in the breeze. It was beautiful and something I would have not appreciated as much if I didnt have that front row seat. As the graveside service ended, my children and I gathered at the casket where once again it quickly became too much to handle. Paul swept me away and placed me back in the car to avoid the rush of people making their way to me. Thank you Paul for taking great care of me and my family during that time and Thank You for your prior service to our country as an Air Force Veteran and also for your continued service to Kokomo! I have huge respect for you as a community leader, husband and Father! Ooops....I almost forgot to explain the 2nd photo and the one I know he wants everyone to really remember.....he also IS the reigning champion of the “Follow Me....Neil’s Next Mission 5K”!
Posted on: Mon, 10 Nov 2014 11:21:25 +0000
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