In Memory of Rick Buesch
Ted Perry,
a fellow Marine, remembers Rick in the presentation below. This speech was
forwarded by Rick's compatriot and high school classmate Jack Kaplan.
References in the speech to Rick are
in bold.
Jack Kaplan, a high school classmate of Rick's wrote this note along with this letter:
"Ted
was very close to Rick. Closer than
brothers. He
took Rick's death particularly hard. He
is a great American who would love to be here on my
flank. Words cannot
express just how both pleased and moved I am to be serving
in support of Operation Enduring Freedom,
Sine Pari, God Bless America,
Love, Jack"
*************************************************************
(December, 2001)
CSM(R) Ted Perry
15 Rustic Lane
East Hartford, CT 06118
A Holiday Message to My Good Friends
As the warmth of the holiday season draws closer, I am doing something that I have never done before – sending a message in letter form – although it is different than you might expect. This message has to be different as my inner self tells me that as most people prepare to enjoy the spirit of the season, friends, and family, it may be for some of the wrong reasons. It's time to remember some important people.
I choose to remember, other than my family, those who directly impact my feelings – those who day in and day out have made my life one of the reasons I share these thoughts.
I don't mind sharing with you that for the past several months, when I'm alone, my heart grows heavy and my eyes fill with tears, for my inner peace came crashing down on 10 January 01. That's the day when my dear friend, Rick Buesch, departed this life. When you add 11 September 01 to the equation, the devastation that our nation faced has frustrated me to no end, as I am sure it has done to so many of you, also.
Most of you knew, loved and respected our brother, Rick, too. His death created an upheaval within us. I think of him, our times together, our talks, and my inability to accept the reasons for his leaving us all. I shall never forget him and hope none of you do either.
Now, we have another good friend who is far away from the circle. LTC Jack Kaplan is bravely serving with his Special Ops warriors, once again, on the ground in Afghanistan. Without any hesitation, Jack went to defend the freedom that our nation takes for granted.
Prior to his leaving, Jack flew to Hartford on 3 October 01 to join me at the 20th Annual Senior NCO/CPO Dining-In, where I was asked to be the main speaker the following evening. Joining us was LT Al Lepak and Sgt/s Tom Grimaldi, Bruce Thomas, and Jack Ferrier, all brothers. We enjoyed a great evening of comradeship. Jack, to his surprise and our glee, was inducted into the Connecticut State Militia, the oldest state militia in the nation, as a CSM (Honorary), by the State CSM Steve Primett and State Adjutant General, MG Cugno, with the signed approval of Governor Rowland. (Jack makes a great CSM, which "secretly", I think, he covets!) It was a special evening.
Jack left the following day for Special Operations Command in Florida – then departed for "Lake Afghanistan" to join his Special Ops warriors in defense of our great nation, seeking those cowardly terrorists who tried to plunge the world into chaos. Believe me, I would do anything to be with them, to be at his side.
My heart remains heavy as I think that we, perhaps, in our day-to-day lives, forget those brave warriors who continue to place themselves in harm's way. I would like you all to take a few precious minutes to pause and remember our brother Rick, also a brave warrior who fought with distinction, honor and bravery, and LTC Jack Kaplan, on of our nation's finest! Take a moment to pray, also, for all of our nation's warriors' safe return. The holidays will never be as important as our families and good friends. Remember what we stand for, what our flag stands for, and what Rick stood for.
One bright, cloudless night soon, a sparkling star will illuminate the landscape with brilliance. It's Rick, sending us his holiday wish on the importance of staying close, drawing the circle tighter, and reminding us how important we are to each other. Rick watches over us – don't ever forget it!. For those of us who knew Rick well, we have got to smile knowing the Rick has to be "beside himself" not to be in the middle of the action fighting for his country.
Extraordinary things are possible if we put our efforts toward the good that we can accomplish, but we must remain strong and committed to each other. You all are my heroes, my brothers, and my good friends. Don't get complacent or comfortable, though. WE have a lot yet to do until our warriors return home.
Jack is my friend and yours. Keep him in your thoughts and hearts – he's worth it! Our "warrior monk" may not be home in his fortress relaxing, but he's not like that anyway. His country comes first! He means it when he says, "God Bless America." Our country is truly the home of "silent warriors" who are "without equal"!
I send each of you my continued best wishes and friendship this holiday season. Although I should wish you comfort and warmth, I won't – not while our warriors are away. As the Tora Bora monk says, "No eye has seen, no ear has heard, no mind has conceived what Special Ops has prepared for those who oppose them!" I know that I won't rest easily while Jack is away, and I hope that you won't either.
Semper Fi & Sine Pari –
May God Bless American,
Ted
Let us also think about
our young captain, Mark Reid, who will be back on active duty shortly.
He's one fine officer who will make us all proud!
To Jim "Beads" Fernandez and John Chambers, who also took
Rick's death very hard, guys, remember Rick for what he stood for.
He loved you as only a warrior could love another.
Peace be with you all until we meet again.