Some of you viewed the very inspiring video I attached a link to back on Feb 13 of this year (link below).
http://www.youtube.com/embed/qiLDMBDPCEY?rel=0Well, ... I just happened to be attending and showing my 427 Cobra at a very special car show at the Victory Veterans House in Walterboro, SC this past weekend on May 10. I love honoring veterans and there are quite a few quiet heroes at this very special facility.
As I was sitting with my wife and another friend at the awards ceremony when they gave out trophies/plaques for the winning cars this man came walking by. He was wearing a baggy shirt and he wasn't very tall. As I looked closer, I realized he did not have any arms. A little ding went off somewhere in my head and I got a small chill. After a minute or two he turned sideways and I got a look at the right side of his face. Then it hit me. He looked like the man in the video link I posted on 2/13/14! I'm thinking, NO WAY! Could this really be him? I simply had to find out, so I asked my wife to hold my camera for me and walked over to him and spoke;
"Good afternoon sir and how are you today?"
"Fine thank you"
"You know, as you just walked by me a few moments ago you looked so familiar and I just had to come speak with you a few moments. Could you by any chance be Richie Parker, who drives a 63-64 Chevy, and work at Hendricks Motorsports?"
With a smile and a nod, "Yes, that's me!"
And then of course, a small conversation began and I told him what I'm sure he has heard a thousand times before; what an inspiration you are sir! Told him I had seen his video recently and shared with friends. I asked Richie if I could have my wife snap a picture of us together and he said "Sure", and she did.
My car placed in the top 50 and I received a nice plaque, but you know, getting to see and meet Mr. Richie Parker in person was the highlight of my day! What a privilege.
My friends, be thankful for what you have, because there are those who have much less. But then again, sometimes they have much more when it comes to attitude and resolve.
And a great day to all;
Sam
Me and Richie
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Many veterans there were missing arms and legs from various wars and I saw a Bronze Star Recipient
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This June "D-Day" will be 70 years old. A very rewarding story, thanks for sharing.
Those of us (including me) dealing with the aches and pains and diseases of getting older should get an inspiration from this guy.
What a privilege to meet an inspirational person, such as Richie.
--Bob
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