A FAN LETTER TO WASHINGTON

via esquire.com

How Often Does An American President Come To Town? Fan Letter Worthy.

Dear Mr. President,

Thank you for coming to Roseburg, Oregon last week. Those who have felt the sharp loss of loved ones know why you came. America needs your sort of leadership at all levels.

As an Army veteran of 1974-76, the first wave of the all volunteer Army, I’ve seen your job as Commander In Chief from the bottom up. As the son of a Marine veteran, Korea 1950-1955, the President of the United States has always been a most important job.

Now, turning 60, I’m happy to say the work you’ve done in the current political climate is outstanding. You’ve been the leader America needs, demonstrated by making the time and understanding the importance of visiting Roseburg families.

Having grown up in an Oregon logging town even smaller than Roseburg, then earning a history degree and working in the field 20 years, I’ve heard opinions from all sides.

The strongest opinions come from those who lack the experience of serving their country under any Commander In Chief. Apparently heeding a chain of command isn’t their style. It seems to infringe on their freedom, which is an inside joke to all veterans.

I am a writer, a blogger seeking that elusive insight into cloudy issues. Having you at the helm, sir, helps clear murky vision.

Your Roseburg trip, and the way you handled it, showed true heart. Please know you have fans and supporters in Oregon.

During your two terms in office your family picture has hung in my house the way FDR and JFK portraits hung in the houses of past generations. It’s an honor you’ve returned to us, Mr. President.

Best Wishes,

David Gillaspie

xxxxx

That’s the first and only fan letter I’ve written to any president. Some may have deserved one sooner, but this President made the BoomerPDX cut.

It may seem like a small thing, writing a fan letter, especially in the hyper-paced modern world, but remember the last time you opened a fan letter? I’m still waiting, and while waiting wrote my own fan letter to someone who earned it.

I’ve got friends of all stripes and follow the rule of no talk on politics, religion, or guns. If someone needs to know more about someone else, they’ll ask, then get shut down for being pushy. Or have a polite conversation.

It happens, polite conversations. Not against the rules for a polite conversation now and then.