William G. Clark passed away today.

He served in the Army Air Corps during WWII.  On an air raid over Ploesti, Romania, his bomber was damaged and the crew (those that lived) bailed out.  He spent the remainder of the war in a POW camp there in Romania.  He escaped at one point, but found that the countryside was devoid of food (the farmers were starving to death) and it was suicidal for the civilians to try to help them.  They walked back to the POW camp and the guards did not say anything . . . just opened the gates and let them walk back in.

Upon his return to the US he raised a family and farmed near Midway, KY.  Upon retirement Mr. Clark and his wife, Lily Mae, bought a house in town.  Well known for going out and 'patrolling' the streets of Midway in his white Bronco on a daily basis (most of the time spent shooting the breeze at the corner store) and his friendly wave was a greeting to many residents of the town.

He is significant not just because of his long life and his patriotic service, but he was my neighbor.  His oldest son, William G. Clark Jr.,  is the commander of the 149th BDE of the KYARNG and the man who helped to get me into the NG.

Thursday I will be part of the flag ceremony at the funeral of this average, impressive citizen and veteran.  

And I am most humbled that I have been asked to participate in the final honors of this Veteran.

RIP

RIP

Blue skies sir, RIP

Dram