August 25, 2004
Little Dude Meets Tommy Franks
We got to the store an hour early. Parking wasn't bad. I was told I couldn't bring my camera in because of the book signing. Little Dude and I walked back out to the parking lot, where I placed my camera in my purse. Little Dude was shocked that I was "breaking the rules", but I explained that I wouldn't take photos and I wouldn't leave my camera in the car, no sirree, Bob.....
Tommy Franks came out early to talk with Roger Hedgecock, who was doing a remote from the store. I caught all of 20 seconds before Little Dude and I went to get in line. I was disappointed that Price Club (*cough* Costco *gag*) didn't have a radio set up so we could all listen to the interview. Oh well.
Again, we'd arrived early to secure a good place in line. I knew people would already be waiting and they were. We were approximately 200th in line. Many, many, many....MANY more ended up behind us. Talked with some very nice people while standing in line. Time passed quickly. Before you knew it, we were in front of General Tommy Franks.
He was a very kind man. He took time to greet the children who were there. He spoke with LD for a moment and agreed to let me take his photo with LD. I got my chance to shake his hand and thank him for his service to his country. He smiled and thanked me for raising such a polite young man, supporting our troops, buying his book, and coming to see him. His hand was warm, his grip firm. Just as I thought it would be.
Little Dude said later that he had been planning to salute the General but decided that a nice handshake would be more appropriate since Franks wasn't in uniform. God, I live that kid! Anyhow, LD kept saying how nice Franks was and how much he liked meeting him. Yeah, Little Dude, I thought the same thing.
Posted by DaGoddess at August 25, 2004 10:16 PMOh the joys of a small camera! Not to mention a sweet, gentlemanly young man who is being brought up right ;)
Wonderful photos!!!
Posted by: Mox at August 26, 2004 03:31 AMLD is a gorgeous boy. You're a v.proud mum, J!
Posted by: Rae at August 26, 2004 04:12 AMWhat a great kid! Too bad many today aren't like him. And the General sounds like a nice guy, especially since he let you take pictures (which are great, btw).
Posted by: kerry at August 26, 2004 05:04 AMLD will remember this for the rest of his life. Priceless!
Posted by: Kathy at August 26, 2004 05:39 AMThat's so awesome ! LD is such a great kid!! And you raising him so well! Keep up the great work Joanie! :)
Posted by: Zaldor at August 26, 2004 05:48 AMTell LD I am jealous, I just started Franks' book and would LOVE to meet him! Very fne young man, you have every reason to be proud...
Posted by: PJ at August 26, 2004 07:23 AMHow cool!
Posted by: David Kilpatrick at August 26, 2004 08:21 AMThat's wonderful Joanie, LD will remember that forever. Tommy Franks is a wonderful American and a perfect rolemodel for him to look up to.
Posted by: Mike at August 26, 2004 11:26 AMStuff is stuff. Good memories are forever and are the best present a parent can give.
This one will last a lifetime.
LD's awareness about saluting protocol is a VERY good sign that we've got a solid citizen in training, here.
Well done!
Posted by: Aaron's Rantblog at August 26, 2004 12:35 PMGoddess,
LD is wise beyond his years. If I'm around in 30 years when he decides to run for President, he's got my vote.
Posted by: PCD at August 26, 2004 12:53 PMThat is so awesome! Let LD know he is a fine example of what our youth should be, and can be if they wanted to. You exude your pride in him with every post, and I can understand your feelings as I feel that way when it comes to my daughter who I raise by myself.
I know he likes GI Joes, but what does he think about Transformers? If he likes them, he'll love my site. :)(selfish plug, I know...sorry.)
Posted by: DakRoland at August 26, 2004 02:13 PMTommy Franks looks happy to have met the Dude. He should- now he's famous!
Posted by: Simon at August 27, 2004 02:45 AMI'm so glad LD was able to meet General Franks. He is a prime example of the type of heroes this country doesn't hear much about. You know, the type that doesn't have to brag about four months in a war zone.
Bill
Posted by: Bill at August 27, 2004 03:19 AMGood for you....and Little Dude!!!! That is really awesome!
Posted by: Madame Butterfly at August 27, 2004 12:36 PM