To Whom It May Concern:#RoseParade #Inspiring November 5, 2014 My name is Sue Trapp, I am writing to you concerning the 2015, 126th Tournament of Roses Parade theme “Inspiring Stories.” I would like to share an inspiring story about a gentleman that has inspired many. In 2002 I had the opportunity to work for and develop a wonderful friendship with a lovely couple, John and Joan Pigott. John and his late wife of 60 years Joan K. Pigott, resided in Pasadena for many years, they also enjoyed several areas in California throughout their marriage including, the Mojave Desert, Carmel, Beverly Hills and Palm Springs to name a few. John recently sold their home in Arcadia after Joan’s passing from a long illness in July of this year. I would like you to consider honoring his inspiring story during this year’s Tournament of Roses Parade. John was born January 30th 1920, he grew up in San Francisco; He resided there with his family through elementary school, attending Thatcher preparatory school in Ojai, through High School, and went onto Yale for his degree in English Literature. At the time of his High School graduation, he had the opportunity to set sail for a European tour with one of his teachers; they saw the activity in preparation for WWII. While keeping this in mind, upon his return to the United States, he started Yale University, taking the necessary steps to join military classes and became part of the Navy reserve and obtaining his English BA in 1942. The country needed servicemen at that time and John was ready and willing to contribute upon his graduation. John was commissioned and prepared to help our country where he was needed. He was involved in many conflicts, in several theaters that are told of in our history books. One experience happened on September 15, 1942, it involved the aircraft carrier USS WASP (cv-7) while he was serving on the USS Lansdowne (DD-486) along with the Laffey (DD-459) and two cruisers the Helena (CL-50) and Salt Lake City (CA-25). They were able to save 1,946 men due to a Japanese submarine (1-19) torpedo strike. He had experiences in Normandy France; kamikaze attacks in the Philippines, and dangers of refueling at sea to name a few. When his tour of duty was over he had the opportunity to not only reflect events, but he returned to Yale, using his GI bill to further his education. John obtained his law degree and moved onto a very successful 40-year career at Gibson, Dunn and Crutcher law firm. John continues to stay active in the community. He volunteers as a docent for Lizzies Trail Inn/Historical Museum in Sierra Madre. This is located at the foot of Mt Wilson where families come to see some of the history of Sierra Madre and use the hiking trail. John can usually be found there Saturday mornings from 10 -12. He comes supplied with a toy car or stuffed animal in his pocket as a gift for the children coming to visit the museum with their parents. John passes inspiration on to many, young and old, including my son Joshua, and my family. He is always encouraging, giving a special value while encouraging others to look, to reach and excel in new adventures of their own. John shows interest and care, he is a true gentleman. John took the time to write of his experience of WWII in a book called “DestroyerMan.” I will send a copy for your review and I know you will find it to be a very well written story of survival and inspiration. In the twelve years I have known John he has been an inspiration to myself and shows much encouragement as I continue my own educational journey. I would like to pass this story on, sharing his inspiration with others. I welcome your interest in John and the inspiration he shows to others whether it be sharing a toy to light up a child’s day or agreeing to allow a neighbor’s child to wash his car or having a standing order of “ The Best Oatmeal Cookies” from my son Josh for the last nine years. He is adjusting to his own new adventure where he recently moved to Royal Oaks Estates, in Bradbury, CA. He continues to be independent while enjoying the country life, fresh air, and daily walks while continuing a quiet, semi private lifestyle. His correspondence now goes through the front desk at Royal Oaks Estates. It would be delightful if John were recognized January 1, 2015 at the 126th, Tournament of Roses Parade for his inspiration shared with others. He will be celebrating his 95th birthday on January 30th what a grand celebration it would be for he and my family to watch my son Joshua, a senior at Oak Hills High School in Hesperia, CA, march down Colorado Avenue. Joshua tried out, and was accepted in the Pasadena Community College’s Honor band as a 2nd trombonist. We are all extremely excited and honored. We will be driving many times to Pasadena for practices and festivities, we will fight the crowds to watch the parade in person for our very first time. I would so enjoy that John, myself and family would be able to watch the parade in style. John continues to be a lifelong; heart felt inspiration to others, in every day down to earth ways. I know he would be delighted to have a conversation with you. Sincerely, Sue Trapp
Posted on: Thu, 06 Nov 2014 18:54:02 +0000
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