"katy" wrote in message
...
This is certainly off topic and somewhat political. That's a disclaimer so
you needn't go further if it distresses you.

I grew up in West Michigan, specifically the 5th District. Gerald Ford was
a great part of my life, even as a child. My first remembrance of him was
when I was 12 and our class memorized "Barbara Fretchie" by J.G. Whittier
for a presentation of a flag to our school that had flown over the Capitol
building. Gerald Ford came to our school, we recited our poem. Those of
us who were Girl and Boy Scouts led an honor salute. We sang "My Country
Tis of Thee". Later on, I remember Gerald Ford through his work in
Congress, not only as our Representative but also as Speaker of the House.
I remember going to Washington, DC and being welcomed into his office as a
constituent. Without an appointment. I also knew, through others, that
Gerald Ford responded to personal requests made by his constituents when
they needed assistance with the workings of government, whether that be to
assist with the disability process, or other things mundane.

O just finished watching his funeral at the National Cathedral. Gerald
Ford was all those things mentioned in his eulogies. Most of you only
know him from the short time he served as VP and President and for the
times he blundered around on the golf course. Henry Kissinger's remarks
were the most apt. Gerald Ford was truly one of the 10 decent men that
keep the world in focus. My heart goes out to his wife and family and I
feel a sense of personal loss for someone that played a great part i my
own life, as a resident of Michigan and as a citizen of the United States.
God bless Gerald R. Ford. I am sure he is a most welcome guest at the
pearly gates.

Nice post Katy.
I admired President Ford for standing up to good friend, Richard Nixon, and
not allowing him (Nixon) to possess (destroy) the Watergate tapes. That was
a mark of his true character.
Scout