I was aboard the USS KOELSCH on 17 May 1987 when word came thru that my best friends boat had taken a couple of missiles on the port side.
According to later conversations, one of those missiles pushed STG3 Stephen Erwin out of his rack, killing him and several other members of the USS STARK's crew.
Later that day I received what became the last letter sent by Steve. I still have it and treasure it as the last tangible contact I have with someone more than just a friend, more than a brother, Steve was my shipmate. Thru thick and thin carries very little significance between shipmates. It just doesn't evoke the emotions that are present in that sort of relationship. Some of you understand what I am trying to describe, and others have absolutely no idea nor will you ever.
My point for this post in this thread is to show my absolute admiration for President Ronald Reagan. That man did something a few days later that has stuck in my mind ever since . President Reagan hurt for those men, their families, and their shipmates. He showed his humanity on the world stage at the memorial service for the members of the Stark crew. I believe he carried the hurt of this nation in those days, and carried it to his grave.
Anyone can make fun of this post or me, but no one will ever diminish my admiration, respect, and trust of Ronald Reagan.
