Clyde was a faithful member of the Legion Post at Arenzville. With the exception of only a couple of years, he participated in the annual Memorial Day services to honor his fellow veterans. In the photo below, you see him (far left), preparing for the 2004 parade along with fellow Legion members Gilbert Harbin, Gene Farmer and Allen Stock.
Clyde served with distinction in WW II. He rarely spoke about his experience, but when I interviewed him to get his story, I asked him if he still had his military medals. One of them was unusual, a medal I had not seen before. It was the Distinguished Flying Cross, and the story of how Clyde and his fellow crewmen earned it is remarkable. In researching his story, I was able to speak by telephone with both the pilot and another crew member besides Clyde. Even after more than 50 years, they each remembered the details of that mission and expressed high regard for one another. How many quiet heroes live among us?
Clyde and me in May 2006, at his 90th birthday celebration.
Clyde blows out his birthday candles.
This is one of my favorite photos -- Clyde is reading "Captain Underpants," a book my nephew received for Christmas but something that apparently appeals to all ages.