I am very sad today, for last night I found out that Art Cook, 36th Engineer passed away. An IMMENSE loss to me and to the world, for he was one hell of a man and a close, close personal friend. I shall share some comments I sent to Carl Furtado this morning, on Art's passing.

...Art's death gave me a real blow last night. I put off the tears until waking this morning. Art and I were very close and we emailed each other often, just like you and I. He was a real mentor and inspiration to me. We talked about all kinds of things including the war, and he also sent encouraging words to keep me going.

 

I have met many vets along the way, and some are mere acquaintances, some have become very good friends, and on a scale of 1-10, Art was a ten in my book, along with you, Stef, John and a few others. When a "ten" passes away, it is very hard to say goodbye. I shall miss his emails and calls. He always addressed each letter to me with, "Dear M...", and in turn I always signed my letters to him with, "Dear A..."

My condolences to his very dear wife, Dottie. I can't imagine how heavy her heart is.

More later, have to go grab a tissue and have some private time...