Special Requests

Under normal circumstances, if someone in the men’s locker room at my gym asked me to help him take off his shirt, I’d probably look at him like he was crazy. Last Sunday, though, someone made just that request, and I happily helped him. KV — I didn’t get his permission to use his name, or tell this story, so I’m going to leave out some details like name — had a really, really hard time getting his arms up high enough to remove his pull-over shirt. That’s probably to be expected, though. You see, KV is 90 years old. He served in the Air Force in World War II, flying several different aircraft, including the fabled P-51 Mustang.

KV took the time to tell me a couple of stories, highlighting a couple of his experiences, his faith, and his comfort with having lived a good life. While it’s generally not my style to hang out in the locker room to chat with folks, it seemed like the right thing to do at the time. For sure, I hope that, if I make it to 90 years old, I’m as happy with what I’ve accomplished in my life as is KV.

I’m not sure I have met another World War II veteran. I’m glad I did. For sure, a 90-year-old Air Force veteran deserved 30 minutes of my time.

And a little help with his shirt.