430 miles for fajitas?

     We drove to Ft. Worth, Texas last Monday to eat fajitas at Papasitas Cantina!  Actually and to be truthful there was a lot more involved than that....and as Paul Harvey would say "and now the rest of the story".
     We got a call on Friday from someone very special to us, Erin Rhode.  For those of you who don't know...she is the daughter of LT James Mitchell JR who was killed in Viet Nam in 1965.  (Jim was Ed's LT and killed from the same land mine that injured Ed.)  She told us that she and Scott would be in FT. Worth on Monday evening and wanted to know if we could make the trip south to visit with them.  There was no hesitation in answering that question...obviously we would go!  It has meant so much to both of us to have Erin and her family in our lives.  This year her three children were not with them as they all had their own activities elsewhere...so we also left our grand children home.  Over the years her children and our grand children have developed a great friendship and we are so happy about that!
     Erin and the two of us arrived early in the day and spent an afternoon "catching up".  Scott arrived at the hotel about 7:00 PM and we left for Papaistas Cantina; Scott's absolute favorite Mexican restaurant in this area.  We enjoyed a dinner of wonderful fajitas.  Scott says they are the worlds best!  Back at the hotel we visited for a long while before going to get some rest from the long day.
     We met for breakfast in the morning and visited some more before Scott had to leave for work...we wished him well saying "someone has to work!".  We were all a bit uncertain if this was the 3rd or 4th year we had been meeting here; but for sure it has become a yearly event for us and we so enjoy the time spent together.  It truly means so much for Ed to be a part of Erin's life.  For him it is an important way to honor the memory of LT. Mitchell. 

Connie Beesley

    It is so amazing how certain events are etched in our memories. Even the passage of time cannot diminish their impact on our lives.  One such event happened in my life on July 20th 1965.  I was in Vietnam where we were fighting a war our politicians would not let us win and our fellow Americans did not support, a very confusing time for a 19 year old farm boy. On that day I recall my platoon commander announcing the birth of his baby girl Erin. To me that baby girl was a symbol of hope in a chaotic world.  Her father James M Mitchell Jr.would be killed in action six weeks later.  She would never see him.  It would be many years later that I would be privileged to meet that little girl who was now grown and has a family of her own. Erin, You impacted my life those many years ago  and you Scott and the kids still inspire me today.  Thank you soooo very much for being in my life.

Semper Fi
Eddie R Beesley

Just Being There

     Sometimes people think that IF they are not doing something for a large group what they are doing is insignificant...I say that is not so!  Not to pat our our own backs, but to let you know that what we do one on one is often of the greatest value.   In our years in ministry it has been these times when we KNOW we have helped someone in their darkest moments that keeps us motivated.  Talking to someone who has been contemplating suicide but then walks away encouraged is more important than speaking to a crowded room in "general" terms.  Yes, Eddie does enjoy speaking in churches and to veteran and civic groups with his message of hope and encouragement...but sometimes we need to be there one on one; or as in our case most of the time...two on two....to listen, to encourage and to offer suggestions for hope and help.
     Just this past week we had one of those opportunities. We met for lunch with a couple who wanted and needed help and comfort for their veteran son.  I will not go into particulars...such things told in confidence need to be kept there.  Their son is now dying and they needed to know some things AND most of all that someone cared.  We plan on visiting with him when the parents set that up and "just being there".  Sometimes that is all one can do AND sometimes that is the best and biggest thing we can do.  I recall on one VA hospital visit that Eddie was asked to come into a veterans room.  The man was dying...soon.  He couldn't speak but as Eddie spoke to him and held his hand his eyes filled with tears.  Just knowing someone cared enough to take time out of their day to sit with him for a while meant so much to him and also to his family. 
     Each one of us can do these small but BIG things IF we will listen to where God leads us if we want to help and be there for others.  And since we have been unable to do a lot of traveling these past few years this is where we concentrate our efforts for now. We hope that we will soon have the necessary financing to be back on the road to our military hospitals...if not we will continue to what we can closer to home.  And remember to keep a smile on your face as that small gesture will brighten the day for those you come in contact with!

Connie Beesley

Viet Nam Veterans Reunion in Branson 2012

     Though there are times I sit here and make angry faces at my computer; you know, those days when it is running slow or just won't do what you want it to do!  But we were glad for modern technology in early March when Eddie got an email about an upcoming Viet Nam Veterans reunion to be held in Branson.  It is always good for us when events are in Branson; it is close and we can use our time share for accommodations.   So we made reservations and prepared to attend.  The event was sponsored by Branson Veterans & Reunions.  We've known the Director of this group, Arlen Lipper for a number of years.
       The attendance was good for this being the first reunion of this type. (Several years back Branson held a Welcome Home reunion in the summer)  We enjoyed the vendors area.  And of course it is always good for the men who served in this war to be together...welcoming each other home.  We saw old friends and met some new ones....AND Eddie had a surprise at one of the events!
        The first night several of us attended the Hamner Barber Show.  We ALWAYS enjoy this show and have seen it many, many times.  In fact once Jim Barber said he just knew we had figured everything out!  No Way!  Dave Hamner's illusions are amazing!  Both men are very talented and have talented folks working on the show.  The tribute to Veteran's is the best one in Branson and we never get tired of seeing it.

    The second evening we joined many of the veterans on the Branson Belle for an evening dinner cruise.  There was a special tribute planned for us hosted by one of the Southern Belles.  She definitely enjoyed posing for a picture with Eddie!  Yup....typical "flirty" Southern Belle!  After the tribute we boarded the Showboat for a great dinner and show!

      There was a parade planned and Eddie was asked to ride in one of the vehicles.  He is always ready and willing to do what ever is asked to support our veterans and participate in the events in Branson. 

     And now to back track to the opening ceremonies.  Saved this for last because it was special day for Eddie.  During the intermission a man came over to talk with Eddie.  He had been in the same beach landing at Chu Lai on May 7, 1965 as Eddie!  Small world!  This doesn't happen often.  Eddie has only re-connected with a handful of buddies from his time in service.  Below is a picture of Eddie and Arnold Foreman.  Needless to say this was an emotional time for both of them. 

     The reunion was a success and Arlen assured us that the planning was already under way for next year.  We were glad to hear that as my brother Michael was unable to attend this year...but plans to be with us next year.  We certainly hope many more Viet Nam Veterans will attend next year.


Connie Beesley

Grit Together 2012

We arrived early in order to be sure to get a parking place where Ed could utilize the lift as he took the ibot chair with him for the days activities!  This was the 9th Grit Together and we have made all but one...(a family reunion of Ed's was on the same day.....needless to say  that they have chosen another date...This Marine let them know he wouldn't go for that when they planned the reunion on the same date the following year and he chose the Grit Together!)

We didn't plan on selling many books as most of those who attend already have a copy...but we go each year because we enjoy seeing all of our Marine family!  It is always an enjoyable day for those who attend.  There are activities for the children, a band, exhibits as well as lots of great food.  Sgt Grit out did himself with the food this year....not the usual hamburgers and hot dogs!  We had Indian Tacos, corn dogs and BBQ sandwiches!  I'm not supposed to tell, But Ed had seconds on the Indian Tacos!  They were "yummy".  In addition to all that...the shopping at Grits is the best!  His motto is that if he doesn't have it ....Chesty wouldn't want it!  This has to be Ed's favorite place to shop!  I have even found a few things  just had to have!

Each year Sgt Grit has a challenge coin for the event...AND you know Ed is sure to get one for his collection of coins.  We have filled two coin holders and we are working on the third.  I got an extra to send to a great nephew who is serving in Afghanistan. 

Ed with Sgt. Grit! Having a great time!

Getting the ibot.

A lot late, but here is a picture of Ed with his ibot taken while we were in Las Vegas! What a treat to see him at eye level! We are so very grateful for the chair!
This was when Tony Orlando first presented the chair to Ed at the NCOA convention.   Mary Eisenhower also played a part in getting the chair for Ed as well as the Huey 091 group. 

Snowball Express 2011

We were asked to be volunteers for Snowball Express 2011 in Dallas, Texas.  Without any hesitation...no looking at our scheduel...we knew we'd make time for this and immediatly said "yes".

What a privilege it was for us to be there with these families who have paid such a high price for the freedoms our nation enjoys.  I don't have the exact figures but there were over 1,000 of our nations precious children who have lost a parent in the War on Terror in attendance. 

On the first day Eddie and I were put in the area where these arriving families would pick up their luggage!  It was an ALL day job as the planes were coming in from all over!  We smiled, welcomed them and then helped them find their luggage and sent them on the way to their rooms before coming back down for something to eat.  I tried to sit between arrivals and got through the first day!  Tired but so glad to be here.

I have slept some since being there but will try to cover some of the highlights of the events laid out for the Snowball families.

As they arrived and all throughout the event there were celebritites and costumed characters to inter-act with.  The Green M & M took a real liking to Eddie!  Other Characters were there from Six Flags.  

We were bused to a convention sight...actually where the Dallas Mavericks play....  The team was there to greet the families and show off their trophy as Baskeball Champs.  (They won't have one from 2012 as our Thunder beat them...) 

Martin Plowman an Indy race driver talked to the families and was on hand through out the event to meet and take pictures with the families....he also had his car there for them to sit in and take pictures.....You know the children loved this!

Randall McDamiel formerly an NFL player for the Vikings was there to greet the families and sign autoghraphs...He fell in love with the Snowball families.

 I got autographed photos for our two youngest grandsons who love to play football!

Outside the convention center all of the children released lots and lots of red, white and blue balloons!  A tribute to thier parents.  Many of the children were wearing T-shirts with thier parents picture.

 After this event they all loaded up in buses....a very long line of buses and headed out to Six Flags.  Eddie and I knew we wern't up to riding all those rides so we headed back to the hotel for a little rest.  Later that evening I managed to get up to the 38th floor in spite of my fear of being up so high.  The elevator ride up and down waa terrifying...but I made it!  While helping play with the younger ones I made sure to stay far away from the windows but cringed when ever one of the children got close.  Eddie was in his ibot chair and had to keep making it go up and down. 

Gillys closed to the public for one evening and hosted a special party just for the Snowball families.  They had games and foods....lots for the families to do!  And to top off the evening Gary Sinise was there with the Lt. Dan Band to play for them!  What a night!

Have other pictures but as usual...getting the pictures and words in the right places seems to not be so easy for me!  Maybe some day I will learn how this is done.

The entire week end was so rewarding.  We are truly blessed to be able to do what we do.  We plan to volunteer again for this year...even though we came home very tired...we will do it again and again as long as  we are able.  You can google Snowball Express and learn more about this organization and how you can help if you would like to.

Connie Beelsey

The NEW Wheelchair

In June we were getting ready for a week end visit with Erin & Scott Rhode (...remember Erin is Lt Michell's daughter...he was killed in Viet Nam when Eddie was injured) They now live in Carey, N Carolina...but would be visiting in Dallas for a week end. The plans were made and we would meet there.

THEN...just before that week end we began to get calls and emails.....URGENT must speak with you! Mary Eisenhower was trying to reach us! When we finally quit playing phone tag she let me know that they needed to get Eddies new ibot wheelchair to him FAST because Tony Orlando planned on presenting it to him at the NCO (Non-Commissioned Officers) convention in Las Vegas in July. Eddie needed to get the chair and get some training before then.

We learned that a man named Gary Lawson with the Huey 091 Foundation had the chair in Dallas and would bring it to us....BUT since we were going that way we made arrangements to meet and get the chair while in Dallas. What a thrill it was for Eddie to have Erin and her family there to see him get the chair and watch him train! Between Gary Lawson, who had been reading the manual....AND on the phone Gary Linfoot talking Eddie through each step the training took place. Eddie learned to put the chair into the balance mode raising him to eye level.
At that height he can also move the chair about and we can "walk" as never before...seeing each other "eye to eye". He had to promise not to try to climb stairs until he received proper training for that. It took about 5 strong males to get the wheelchair into the back of Brittnee's trailblazer for the trip home where it stayed for a few days till we got some help to get it out.
(later we bought some ramps to help load and unload the chair from her vehicle...knowing that soon we would be looking for a van.)

Within a few days we were packing ...talk about a new learning experience...we hadn't flown in years and had to learn all the new regulations for flying! Nervously we set out for the airport and our flight to Las Vegas...via the Dallas airport. That airport is huge and so confusing...so that alone had me worried. As we arrived at the American Airlines check in...they were ready and waiting for us! Our contact with American Airlines, Toni Russell had made wonderful arrangements! We were seated in first class and soon in the air! In Dallas we were met at the gate and taken to the next airplane...soon on the way to Las Vegas!

When we arrived we were met and taken to the Golden Nugget hotel AND got to check in through the VIP room along with Tony Orlando's band!

The night of the banquet Tony Orlando along with Mary Eisenhower and Jim Palmersheim (from American Airlines) presented the ibot chair to Eddie. The evening was awesome! Eddie was able to be TALL when the Marine Corps Hymn was played! We are so blessed that last November Tony Orlando told Eddie he would see that he got one of these wonderful life changing wheelchairs! That promise started a chain of events that led up to this evening AND some wonderful events yet to come!

We took pictures and I will see what I can do to get them added to this blog in the next week or so....but this will have to do for now.

As I promised, I will work on getting some wonderful stories told and documented.

This wheelchair has truly changed a lot of things for us AND we hope that we can play a part in helping others become ibot owners! The road ahead may be a long one and perhaps even seemingly an impossible one..BUT I have learned that with God NOTHING is impossible!

So, please continue to "tune in". I will eventually explain that last paragraph...I have more stories to tell and a lot of pictures to post.

Till next time,

Connie Beesley

Where oh where has the time gone?

Just a note to let everyone know we are still alive and well. I find it hard to believe that an entire year has passed with not a single blog! Life happens AND sometimes I get way behind.
This past year has been a busy one and I will endeavor in the next few weeks to play catch up with stories and pictures.

like on the news and with shows....a teaser...

Eddie got his ibot wheelchair! We've been off the ground and up in the air! And one of the celbrities we've met ...Lt Dan.....yes Gary Sinise.

I'll try to get these stories told very soon...AND add the pictures if I remember how! (will ask for help if need be.)

Connie Beesley

Pictures

I am still having trouble with all of this...but learning! These pictures go with the previous blog. Eddie's brother Flay, who lives in Branson and served in the military during WW11 came to the Day Room. He is pictured next to Eddie with his wife Ruby.














Cameras were flashing all over the room when Joe arrived with his banjo! What a treat for everyone. AND you could tell that Joe was enjoying himself!

Joe with Sandy Milner...she and her husband Chip volunteer to run the Day Room every year.

The mimes are wonderful to watch! These youngsters are very talented and dedicated!

The men outside the Day Room. What a treat for the Mall shoppers!

The displays that I brought. The large one full of our family members including one of mine that rode with Teddy Roosevelt and his Rough Riders! Under that is the frame including 2 pictures of Bob Chance from our church. Next to the large picture is the one of Joe's parents and a picture of his book cover.

We truly spent many enjoyable hours at the Day Room! If you ever get to Branson for Veterans Week be sure to stop by and visit!

Connie Beesley

Veterans Day Room

On the second day of Veterans Week the Day Room opened as well as Vendor Village and the lunch tent. We were up early and started our day at the Day Room. What a wonderful idea this was and continues to be for Veterans Week.

Chip and Sandy open up the room and manage it all day...every day during Veterans week.

This is a place where veterans can come for coffee and snacks; a place where they can sit and visit with other veterans; AND a place where they can bring their guitars and other instruments and play and sing. This year we had determined to spend most of our time here as we both enjoy visiting with all the veterans who stop in here.

As we arrived we notice that Erwin...one of the authors who had been given an award at the opening ceremonies was just leaving. BUT when Eddie got his guitar out of the car, Erwin decided to stay a while longer. He had brought his fiddle. He and Eddie enjoyed playing for a while before he had to leave.

Veterans are asked to bring photos of themselves to display...and the display in the Day Room is growing every year. This year I made up some displays for the room. I had pictures to frame of one of our church members who served in WW11 and did a display of family members of the Gaudette's (my side) and the Beesley's who have been in military service. I also got permission from Joe Bonsall, one of the Oak Ridge Boys and author of G, I. Joe and Lilie to frame and display a picture of his parents from his book (He liked what I did and asked if he could have it.)

We left for a bit to visit Vendor Village. It is always fun to visit the booths and see what they have to show...books and many other interesting items! This also is a place for visiting and "hanging out". AND most importantly for registering for the week...to get the ALL IMPORTANT badge that will get the veteran into the lunch tent for a FREE LUNCH! YES there really are FREE lunches for veterans every day for Veterans week. The local Golden Corral supplies the food and it is very much appreciated by all! Vets are FREE and spouses pay only 4.00...what a deal!


This year the tent was set up on uneven ground...but instead of complaints we were all teasing and having fun. The ones setting on the upper side would promise to hold onto their plates and drinks so they would not slide into the one sitting across the table from them! And they were also gracious enough to let us know they would warn those behind us should we fall backwards! Except for the fact that we were not rolling about on ocean waves the tables and chairs were slanted at precarious angles! A flatter place would have been nice but would not have inspired our conversations!


After lunch we went back to the Day Room for more visiting. Eddie once again took his guitar inside and soon more veterans arrived to "pick n grin"...


This year many more of the ladies brought cookies and snacks...there was enough that everyone could find goodies that they liked. Even those who were not Marines enjoyed the sugar cookies that I brought...made in the shape of the Marine Corps Emblem.


All week long we told folks that someone "special" was going to be there with his banjo on the 10th! When the big day arrived the Day room was full and the anticipation was high! Then the special guest arrived...Joe Bonsall of the Oak Ridge Boys! He came with his banjo and soon there was a crowd listening and enjoying the fun and music! Joe had someone video them and that can be seen on his web page. When it was time for another group...the Mimes...to perform the musicians were not quit ready to stop playing...so they moved outside the room and continued making music! What a treat for the mall shoppers!


I had intended to add pictures to this...but since I am still learning how to do all of this I think it will be best to post this then add another blog with the pictures.

Connie Beesley

Update and Openng Ceremonies in Branson

Guess by now it is evident that plans did not go as PLANNED. I had meant to get a lot written about Branson by now but have been VERY busy here at home.

We always have a lot going on at church...and that has been one thing taking up time...THEN there is always the 4 grand children that keep us busy in one way or another....helping with homework...and also going to school with Jace the youngest because he did his book report on Eddie's book Lucky Enough. On top of all this are all the fund raising activities as we help our 13yr old grandson Keith pay for his trip to New York City this May with his vocal music group. They will be singing at Carnegie Hall and he is one happy boy to be planning this adventure. And must not forget the two teenagers...Dillon will be Graduating and we've had to keep up with all the "Senior deadlines". Brittnee is still catching up on school work from her last surgery. Those of you who know us well know that she was born with clef pallet and has had many surgeries through the years. Last week she had the appointment she had been waiting for as she says "forever"....the cosmetic surgery for her nose and upper lip. After the appointment we thought the surgery would take place in January...much sooner than we had thought. AND then yesterday when Eddie called to give them the deposit and let them know it was a "go"...they told him they could do it December 1st! WAY earlier than we anticipated. BUT for Brittnee there is no doubt and she is excited! So...now we do what is necessary to prepare for this surgery...and then of course there is Christmas to prepare for so as far as rest...well, maybe sometime next year!!!!

AND NOW A BIT ON BRANSON:

We got into Branson early enough to be able to drop off the things we had brought for the Veterans Day Room. It was good to see Chip and Sandy again.

We left the pictures and the cookies then met up with my brother Michael and spent this night resting...as we knew the rest of the week would be hectic.

The opening ceremonies were held at the Mansion Theater. We arrived early in order to be sure and get a good parking spot...but actually it was to have time to visit and renew friendships. There are many veterans who come every year for this event.

Since Eddie would be giving out an award we were taken back stage. What fun...to be back there with some celebrities we knew and meeting others for the first time. I saw some pretty red very high heels and just "knew" they had to belong to Dalena Ditto...and sure enough, I was right. Before long she was there wearing a beautiful red dress that matched those shoes! She asked me to take a picture for her (and I'd actually should remember to send that to her soon)...she wanted a picture of her and Cathy Rigsby together. Cathy was there dressed in her Peter Pan outfit. (Later in the week we would see the play...what a performer she is! AND still the best Peter Pan!)

This picture could be titled "The Tall and the Small" Both ladies are very talented and just plain "super" in our book! It was fun to watch Cathy back stage...I think she could even be a dancer with Island Fire!

I can tell you it has been a wonderful experience to be back stage. We are very blessed to have been able to do this and get to know so many performers in Branson.

It wasn't long before the Oak Ridge Boys arrived! Last year Eddie had gotten to be back stage with them at their theater and I sort of "complained" a bit about being left out front...BUT NOT this year! Since last year when Eddie and Joe Bonsall were both given a Stars and Flags book award we have gotten to know Joe and looked forward to seeing him...as he and Eddie would be giving out those awards to this years recipients. And of course...all the veterans always look forward to seeing the Oaks sing in the opening ceremonies. I had all the medals separated and ready for Joe to take on stage and hand out BUT he insisted that I go out with them and hand them to him as needed. I am generally out there in the audience watching Eddie on stage so this was new to me. And right there in the front row were some of our very dear friends we've gotten to know over the years Sherry and Roger Koehler! After our part on stage we went out into the theater to relax and watch the rest of the show Before we had even gotten back to our condo Joe had sent us pictures of us on stage!

Be patient and keep checking back...there will be more about Joe and the other events of the fun filled week we spent in Branson!

Connie Beesley

Make New Friends

I was recently reminded of a song we sang when I was an assistant Brownie leader

Make new friends
But keep the old
One is silver and
The other is gold.

On the 3rd of November Eddie and I made two new friends in Joplin, Missouri. We had been asked to speak to a rotary club meeting there on the 4th and decided to get there the evening before. We got in early enough that the lady who had asked us to speak was able to meet us for dinner that evening

Sharon and her husband Gary met us in the hotel lobby and took us to one of their favorite restaurants...Chatters. (when he first told us the name...I thought he had said Cheddars...we had never heard of or eaten at Chatters.

Over dinner we made new friends...how fortunate we are to be able to travel and speak AND make new friends as we do what we like...

The next day we met them again at the Rotary club meeting. Eddie was introduced and spoke for the alloted time....after which we visited with those who did not have to rush right back to work....and also a while longer with Sharon and Gary.

We are blessed to now have new friends to keep in touch with...hopefully they will also come visit us sometime.

After our visit in Joplin we headed for Branson....Veterans Week....the 5th through the 11th. It was to be a busy but wonderful week for us.....

Being on stage at the opening ceremonies.......
The Oak Ridge Boys.....
Sunday service at the Hamner Barber theater......
The veterans Day Room....pickin' n' grinnin'......
Viet Nam veterans mini reunion.....
Tony Orlando....
Marine Corps Ball.....
Oliver North....
More new friends....
Closing Ceremonies....

So much more to blog about in the coming days!!!

Connie Beesley

Felicia

Before we left for the MWSA Conference in Orlando I sent an email to someone who lives near there in the hopes of finally meeting her. We had only talked to her on the phone and via email....after she located us because she wanted to talk to Eddie about her brother Danny.

Saturday morning we attended MWSA workshops...but soon it was nearly noon and...I was feeling a little nervous. Eddie probably was too, but wouldn't say so. At least by now he has come to realize that all that happened on that August day in 1965 was not his fault. He had been point man...but he had done everything "by the book". That day 3 men loss both legs and two good men died.

In August of 1965 Felicia was just 10 years old when she was told that her brother Danny would not be coming home alive. I remember that my youngest sister Lois was only 9 when our father died...how lost she appeared as she tried to grasp that her daddy was gone forever. It is hard for any of us to lose a loved one...but when we are older we understand those things do happen...it isn't so for the young, they don't understand. When Felicia first contacted us she wanted to know all that Eddie could tell her about the time he spent with him. And of course the events of that day.

And now we were about to meet her and her husband. She put us right at ease with a big hug and beautiful smile. She was glad to finally meet us as we were her! After a few brief words we went into the hotel restaurant, had a good lunch and visited for a long while.

It is good when families can visit with those their loved ones served with and it is good for the one who served with their loved one. Not only is there healing but also it is an assurance that the one who has paid that ultimate price will NEVER BE FORGOTTEN.

Eddie gets a BIG HUG! What a day! We are so happy to have finally met Danny's family.

Connie Beesley