Military Appreciation

What a privilege it was to attend the 42nd Annual Military Appreciation Banquet here in Fairbanks last night. Ralph sponsored seats at the table for the Delta Company Commander for the l/207th Aviation Battalion of the Alaska Army National Guard and his wife. Capt. Haker was also the first to be called to receive an award at the banquet. He's responsible for maintenance of the aviation battalion's fleet of UH-60L Blackhawk Helicopters. It was interesting to hear a little bit about his time in Kosovo.

General Norton A. Schwartz gave the keynote address. He emphasized how much work it is for the military and the surrounding community to have a good relationship. I had never really given that much thought, but he's right. It's melding two distinct systems into the same geographic area. The Fairbanks region in conjunction with Eielson, Ft. Wainwright, Clear, and Greely have done an outstanding job of making a vibrant and supportive community.

Beaucoup dignitaries attended last night's banquet. As we mingled, prior to being seated, I was talking to the wife of an aircraft manufacturer's rep. We were chatting about our kids and living in Alaska. Suddenly a person was there introducing himself and shaking her hand. The governor. There was no help for it. "Hi. I'm Paula Lindstam. I'm Ralph Samuels sister."

"Oh." To give him credit, he only looked liked he'd stepped in something nasty for about a half a second. Then cheerfully, "Good for you." He made a quick escape.

Later I told Ralph, "I met the governor."

"Oh, good for you," he said.

I've decided that just as red is the new black, "Oh, good for you" is the new "Who cares?"