For My Buddy Russ

RIP Blackjack
Faithful Companion

My good buddy Russ, (I will always think of him as as SSgt Kinion from my days at Kadena AB, Okinawa) lost his buddy Blackjack the other day. Fourteen years old, Blackjack went like many hope to, in his sleep, knowing that he was loved.

Hope you don't mind Russ, but I "borrowed" the following from your Facebook post. I thought it was beautiful, too beautiful not to share...

On these premises are buried the remains of one who

possessed Beauty without Vanity,

Strength without Insolence,

Courage without Ferocity,

and all the Virtues of Man,

without his Vices.

This Praise, which would be unmeaning

Flattery if stated over human remains 

is but a just tribute to the Memory

of Blackjack, our Dog.

Condolences to Russ and his family.

Just this side of heaven is a place called Rainbow Bridge.

When an animal dies that has been especially close to someone here, that pet goes to Rainbow Bridge. There are meadows and hills for all of our special friends so they can run and play together. There is plenty of food, water and sunshine, and our friends are warm and comfortable.

All the animals who had been ill and old are restored to health and vigor. Those who were hurt or maimed are made whole and strong again, just as we remember them in our dreams of days and times gone by. The animals are happy and content, except for one small thing; they each miss someone very special to them, who had to be left behind.

They all run and play together, but the day comes when one suddenly stops and looks into the distance. His bright eyes are intent. His eager body quivers. Suddenly he begins to run from the group, flying over the green grass, his legs carrying him faster and faster.

You have been spotted, and when you and your special friend finally meet, you cling together in joyous reunion, never to be parted again. The happy kisses rain upon your face; your hands again caress the beloved head, and you look once more into the trusting eyes of your pet, so long gone from your life but never absent from your heart.

Then you cross Rainbow Bridge together....