MY STATEMENT ON THE PASSING OF PRESIDENT BUSH #41
I WAS ASKED TO MAKE A STATEMENT AFTER LEARNING OF THE PASSING OF PRESIDENT BUSH #41. ALTHOUGH MY MIND IS STILL NUMB, I JUST STARTED TYPING, AND HERE IS MY STATEMENT......
Today, when I put on a clean t-shirt, getting ready for our Christmas show in Cheyenne, WY, I did not notice that the words on the shirt read, “Bush Protection Secret Service, Houston.” It was one of 31 t-shirts in my closet.
When we got off stage, and announcements were all over TV, a huge empty feeling consumed my heart. I remembered how much I had wanted to go fishing with him…. And then that happened, many times. He took me out into the ocean about 20 miles “where the big blues run,” and we caught so many fish I quit counting. When a big one broke my line, he handed me his rod and reel and said, “Use mine. I will put you on another lure.”
He was like a daddy figure to me, and he was all about making everyone around him have a good time. The sting of death always hurts, but I have so many memories to make me smile. The Oak Ridge Boys have sung “Amazing Grace” for him on Air Force One, in Kennebunkport, at the White House, and over the phone when he was in the hospital. However, singing “Amazing Grace” at his funeral will be the most difficult assignment we will ever have. Duane Allen, The Oak Ridge Boys
I WILL HAVE MORE TO SAY WHEN MY MIND CLEARS....THANK YOU ALL FOR SENDING MESSAGES TONIGHT......I AM OVERWHELMED WITH YOUR LOVE......THANK YOU......
Branch Manager, Consumer Lender
6 年So sorry for the loss of your friend. To most of us, he was someone we elected and saw on television. You knew his heart and he will forever be a part of yours. May the Lord give you and ORB peace, comfort, and strength.
Dedicated Project Manager skilled in video and audio production, photography, and audio visual hospitality.
6 年Thanks for sharing that personal statement Duane. I sang “On The Wings of a Snow White Dove” by Ferlin Husky at my father-in-law’s funeral 5 years ago. ?? I too knew that moment would come some day as it was his request and I promised him several years ago I would. Though it was the hardest thing I’ve ever had to do, I was honored to do so. So, I will be saying a special prayer for all of you that God will grant you the strength it takes to get through that moment. All the best. ??
Owner/Director of Affirm Health Center
6 年Blessings and comfort??
Singer, Christian and country music. Just released my first album entitled “By God’s Grace” and will be uploading it to iTunes in the near future. Have signed copies for sale.
6 年Awww! What a great lesson from a great President! Thanks for sharing, Duane.
Community Manager at Providence Life Services
6 年Very nice tribute to a special leader!