Richard Fernald
Lynn, Family, and Friends
I was blessed to have met Mike just a few years ago here in NC. We met as Mike did his daily walk through the neighborhood. One day 2-3 years ago, this tall man who proudly wore his veteran hat walked by my alley where I carve birds. I remarked about his being a Vietnam vet and shared that I did a tour in 1968. That was it, we were brothers. We didn't need to share a lot of stories, we both knew that we were happy to be home. He always took interest in what I was carving and share a few words. As headed down the alley he always gave me a nod and said, "Be well brother." I miss him and will never forget this man who cared enough to stop and share those few words. The last time I saw Mike, I thanked him for a neat "Proud to be a Veteran" T-shirt that he had left for me a few days before at my carving chair. I had stepped into my house when he left me the shirt. I knew Mister Mike left me a gift that I will cherish forever.
Rich Fernald
Huntersville, NC
