Living with the Pearls: Pearls of Honor Author blog

What are the odds???

2011-12-09T04:15:00.000-08:00

What are the odds...

... that a Survivor of the attack on Pearl Harbor... would die 70 years, TO THE HOUR, of December 7th, 1941... at 8:00am local Hawaii time? (see links to two associated articles below)

Photo: As I arrived at the registration booth for the 2008 Pearl Harbor Survivors Association (PHSA) National Convention in Fredricksberg, Texas, the first two Survivors I met were Frank Curre (left) and his pal William W. Crawley, (right) as they warmed up their sea stories for the days to come.

Photos(2): It seemed like every time I tried to speak with Frank, he once again would be pulled away for a news media interview... and he sure put his heart into each and every interview.

Frank loved his oath to "Remember Pearl Harbor and Keep America Alert"... and fulfilled that duty heroically.

Photo: And once again, amidst the throngs of people gathered on Main St. in Fredricksberg, Texas for the official Pearl Harbor Day ceremonies, the news media had Frank tied down.

What are the odds???....

What are the odds,... that as I made my way through the thousands of people on the street in Fredricksberg,...

TRYING to jockey for position to take a photo of the Texas Air National Guard's F-16's as they raced down the street and performed the "Missing Man" formation...

that none other than Frank Curre would wind up in the foreground of the photo, pointing up to the F-16's at the moment of the break-off for the Missing Man tribute?

What are the odds?

Source articles:
Texas Survivor Of Pearl Harbor Dies On Anniversary « CBS Dallas / Fort Worth

http://www.npr.org/blogs/thetwo-way/2011/12/09/143397830/a-survivors-duty-after-pearl-harbor-telling-the-story

The LAST Parade...

2011-11-23T06:14:00.000-08:00

11-11-11...

November 11, 2011 has turned out to be

the very LAST parade for

the Silver State Chapter 2, Las Vegas,

of the

Pearl Harbor Survivors Association

But they are not alone... PHSA Chapters across the nation have already closed down, or are seeing this upcoming December 7th, the 70th Anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor, as an appropriate time to close their books, and close their doors.

Even the PHSA's National Chapter has decided to call it "quits".

... And thankfully, the local Las Vegas news media were out early to get a final interview from the Survivors... Shown here, Las Vegas Chapter 2 President, Clifton Dohrmann may be a bit hard of hearing, but the wisdom and stories he tells most assuredly should be recorded.

I hope you will enjoy the following photos of Chapter 2's final official parade attendance... along with the estimated 40,000 spectators (source: News 13 Las Vegas)

... a snappy salute and a fond farewell are indeed in order.

(click photo to enlarge)

Boys Scouts from local Troop 430 arrived to march in escort of the Pearl Harbor Survivors

Providing his driving services for Survivors Hal LaLone and Ike Schab, retired US Navy LCdr Robert Reiter (green flight jacket) discusses final parade instructions with the Troop 430's Scout Master and Scouts.

One last group photo!... time to get in line!!!

Ok... Time to march... let's wrap up the interviews!

...But Ike KNOWS that his story is important... so just hold on a minute!

And their off!

...But the media thought one last interview with the President was important enough to walk alongside their vehicle as they recorded.
Chapter President Clifton Dohrmann enjoys the Scouts' personal escort.

Survivors Ike Schab (rear) and Hal LaLone (front) show off their huge smiles to all the families and friends waving along the parade route.

What a moving sight... taking photos from the motorcycle... I saw a man, who apparently was the son of a Pearl Harbor Survivor... standing alongside the parade route holding up his Dad's PHSA garrison cap and clutching a folded American flag.

Robert Reiter, LCdr USN(Ret) shakes hands with, and thanks Survivors Hal LaLone and Ike Schab for their service, upon finishing his driving duties at the end of the parade.
Is this the last time I'll see this view during a parade?...

Remember Pearl Harbor... and Keep America Alert!!!

Detailing with Honor...

2011-08-12T08:34:00.001-07:00

(Click on image for larger view)

What an awesome tribute!!!

Wizards Products, the leaders in high performance motorcycle and vehicle detailing products has honored us by placing a tribute to "Metal of Honor"... the Remember Pearl Harbor Tribute Motorcycle on the inside cover of their beautiful new 25th Anniversary product catalog.

Click here: To visit Wizard's website...
and help stimulate the economy!

True Honor, Fidelity, Love, Always

2011-04-29T08:56:00.000-07:00

On Tuesday, 26 April, 2011, The Marine Corps League of Las Vegas became the proud recipient of a rare set of photos, donated by the President of the Las Vegas Chapter of the Pearl Harbor Survivors Association, Clifton Dohrmann.

Mr. Dohrmann was stationed at Naval Air Station Kaneohe Bay as an Aircrewman flying aboard the famous Catalina PBY flying boats, at the time of the attack on Pearl Harbor in December of 1941

While stationed at Kaneohe, he acquired two photographs of a rarely-heard-of Marine Corps Unit called the “Horse Marines”… and listed in the photos as the “Beach Patrol”

Given that Mr. Dohrmann is quickly approaching the age of 90, he decided it was time to donate the two photographs to the Marine Corps League’s Leatherneck Club, wherein the Marines have a beautiful collection of historical photographs.

Mr. Dohrmann told the crowd of League Members that he actually thought he was a Marine at times, given the countless number of times he found himself working so closely with them within his five combat tours during World War II… throughout the South Pacific on remote islands, and during search and rescue operations at Guadalcanal.

Prior to the photo presentation, Pearl Harbor Survivor Clifton Dohrmann takes time to meet a World Trade Center 9-11 Attack Survivor, and Sgt-at-Arms for the Marine Corps League… a true American brotherhood A great voice and flair for recounting history, Clifton tells of his gratitude towards the Marine Corps during World War II. Each and every Marine in attendance found Clifton to be the true American treasure he is.
Upon completion of Clifton’s presentation, he was provided a beautiful “Challenge Coin” from the Marine Corps league, and…

So grateful was the crowd at the Leatherneck Club, that they unanimously nominated Clifton to be their newest Honorary Life Member of the Marine Corps League
A warm transfer of ownership of the photographs helped to round out the presentation
A standing ovation and gratitude from all in attendance
Clifton took a moment at the end of his presentation to pose with two other “Survivors”… these being Survivors of the horrific battle for Iwo Jima.

And of course, Mrs Dohrmann was the proudest of all.

SEMPER FI... Clifton!

Update on Survivor Abuse case...

2011-02-01T03:17:00.001-08:00

The more we learn, the more infuriated the veteran community becomes...

Read this article...

Photo... Survivor Max Bauer, holding left side of banner... pauses with the rest of the gang from the San Diego chapter of the Pearl Harbor Survivors Association before the start of the 2005 4th of July Parade in Coronado, California.

Abusing those who provided your freedoms...

2011-01-27T16:36:00.000-08:00

Abusing those who provided your freedoms...

Pearl Harbor Survivor, found living in squalor... abused by caretaker...

Read the latest (Click here)

A picture of Max Bauer... Survivor off the USS Vestal, a Navy repair ship that was tied up next to the USS Arizona on the morning of the December 7th, 1941.

This picture was taken on the 60th Anniversary of the attack, in 2001, as Max stood and reflected upon the 1,177 Sailors and Marines that were killed within feet of where he was standing during the attack.

I've always wondered what Max was thinking at that moment.

A Christmas of Honor...

2011-01-01T06:54:00.000-08:00

What a wonderful gift Pearl Harbor Survivor Clifton Dohrmann of Las Vegas received from his loving wife Ginny.

For months, Ginny had been sneaking around trying to keep secret her intent to give Clifton a beautiful "shadow box" for Christmas.

A shadow box for military veterans usually displays an array of all their medals, ribbons and other awards or accouterments the veteran earned during their time in service to this country.

Pictured above... Christmas Eve as Clifton opened his gift.

Suffice it to say, Ginny was successful in keeping the gift a secret all these months.

Among Clifton's many awards, are two sets of Combat Aircrewman Wings with five stars, denoting five combat tours during World War II. He also was awarded the Air Medal, the Navy Commendation, a Combat Action Ribbon and quite a few more awards for his service in the U.S. Navy.

On December 7th, 1941, Clifton was an Aviation Machinist Mate 2nd Class, and Naval Aircrewman flying aboard the famous PBY Catalina aircraft, stationed at NAS Kaneohe Bay on the island of Oahu.

He retired as a Chief Petty Officer after 15 years of service, and is currently the Vice President of the Pearl Harbor Survivors Association, Silver State Chapter 2 of Las Vegas, Nevada.

Merry Christmas Clifton!

Aloha... from Hawaii...

2010-12-07T06:24:00.000-08:00

PLEASE.... Remember Pearl Harbor and Keep America Alert!

An Incredible Time...

2010-11-19T05:26:00.000-08:00

An "Honor" is only the first word that comes to mind after the incredible experience of being welcomed into the Harley-Davidson Museum in Milwaukee, Wisconsin... as part of their recent Salute to Veterans.

During this past Salute to Veterans event during the Veterans Day, we were invited to place the "Metal of Honor" Pearl Harbor Tribute Motorcycle in the lobby of the Museum... and what an honor that was!!!

The entire staff of the Museum were incredible to work with... in that each and every employee exuded a kind of family teamwork and professionalism that reflects that iconic American attitude of "Get it done!"

It's an historical fact that the Harley-Davidson family has not only been there to help fight for America in the toughest of times, but continues to honor the sacrifices of the American fighting men and women for more than a century. Therefore: It could be said that the Harley-Davidson family indeed falls into the category of "Pearls of Honor!"

Thank you H-D....

A BOOK TAKEN FROM HD MUSEUM...PLEASE RETURN!!!!

2010-11-06T07:38:00.001-07:00

On November 4th, someone mistakenly took my "Pearls of Honor" SAMPLE book...(as seen in this photo above)... from a table at the Harley Davidson Museum.

PLEASE... I'll be more than happy to pay for the postage... PLEASE return it to me... it has important notes and information that is vital to this book project.

Now THIS is big....

2010-09-27T07:33:00.000-07:00

The Harley-Davidson Museum... located in Milwaukee, Wisconsin has invited us to bring the Pearl Harbor Tribute Motorcycle (Metal of Honor)... for a week-long visit and presentation.

(see Facebook promo... and visit the HD Museum website)... http://www.hs.facebook.com/event.php?eid=136662783046115&ref=nf

Starting November 3rd, Metal of Honor will be on display in the Museum thru the weekend, and will help Harley-Davidson honor our military, both past and present during this upcoming Veterans Day.

What an honor this will be... and we hope any and all can make it to the Museum for a visit!

Farewell my friend...

2010-09-13T05:58:00.000-07:00

America lost another Pearl Harbor Survivor and true hero of World War II this past week.

James (Jim) C. Bounds... a.k.a. "Outta Bounds" passed away in San Diego on Friday, 10 September, 2010.

See San Diego Union Tribune obituary... http://obituaries.signonsandiego.com/obituaries/signonsandiego/obituary.aspx?n=james-creston-bounds&pid=145243033

From the very first time I met Jim in the year 2000, I witnessed him treat each and everyone he met as a close friend. Jim, with his renowned sense of humor, always left that new friend with a smile on his or her face.

Considered "the last man off the USS Oklahoma"... Jim was always willing to recount the horrific events of 7 December, 1941, and how he nearly became one of the nearly 430 men lost on that date of infamy.

We all will miss you Jim... and we all thank you for the wonderful example of "being an American" for all of us to follow.

Recent Media Coverage

2010-07-27T07:58:00.000-07:00

It's actually a great honor when various media outlets not only do a story on the Pearl Harbor Tribute Harley, but get the story right and show enthusiasm for the project

A few recent news articles...

San Diego Union Tribune's SignOnSanDiego...
http://www.signonsandiego.com/news/2010/jul/23/a-rolling-memorial/

Related SignOnSanDiego video clip...

http://www.signonsandiego.com/video/?bcpid=33836215001&bclid=16685637001&bctid=219687469001

San Diego Channel 10 News article...
http://www.10news.com/news/24382820/detail.html
(see video clip link beneath photograph of John Finn)

Las Vegas Review Journal's "The View"...
http://www.viewnews.com/2010/VIEW-May-25-Tue-2010/Summerlin/35984422.html

Honored beyond Honors...

2010-06-07T06:53:00.000-07:00

On 3 June, 2010, a beautiful memorial service was provided for John W. Finn, Lt. USN (Ret) and the first Medal of Honor Recipient of World War II, located in El Cajon, CA.

Many local San Diego Chapter Pearl Harbor Survivors were in attendance. Chapter President and Survivor of the USS West Virginia, Stu Hedley ensures John’s flag is perfect.

An honor bestowed upon me this past week still has me in disbelief. I was asked to ride the Remember Pearl Harbor Tribute Motorcycle in front of the coach carrying John W. Finn to his final resting place 45 miles east of San Diego... escorted by more than 50 Patriot Guard Riders.

Heading east on Interstate 8 with a mile of vehicles behind...

And “Full” Military Honors meant Sailors and Marines as far as the eye could see

BM3 Darren Booth carried out his duties this day in the finest traditions of the United States Navy.

Thank you once again John, for thoughts and memories that will last a life time... and as you wrote in my briefing book, I will indeed "make this book happen!"

Passing of a Hero!!!

2010-05-27T10:50:00.000-07:00

Rest In Peace John W. Finn!!!

A wonderful video by Brian Williams of NBC Nightly News...

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/3032619/#37388239

Our heartfelt prayers and condolences to the family of John W. Finn.

Rest In Peace my friend

Great Press Coverage...

2010-05-26T08:27:00.000-07:00

We wish to give a special "THANK YOU" to Jan Hogan of the Las Vegas / Summerlin View newspaper for her wonderful article in the May 25th edition of the View about the Pearls of Honor projects....

http://www.viewnews.com/2010/VIEW-May-25-Tue-2010/Summerlin/35984422.html

Pearl Harbor survivor John Finn, 100, signs Dana Harbaugh?s custom Pearl Harbor motorcycle in 2009. His likeness and Congressional Medal of Honor are engraved on the motorcycle?s gas tank. On Dec. 7, 1941, Finn kept gunning at the Japanese Zeros even though he took 20 hits from flying shrapnel during the attack. "He?s a rock star in the veterans? world," Harbaugh said.

Original Article

There were 2,403 deaths as the result of the attack on Pearl Harbor on Dec. 7, 1941. Dana Harbaugh is out to see that their sacrifice, and the valor of those who survived, is never forgotten.

He has taken on the task of writing a coffee table book, setting up the website www.pearlsofhonor.com and using his love of motorcycles to outfit one in a Pearl Harbor theme and display it at events.

"It's become, like, my life," he said. "I have a duty to uphold this oath."

Harbaugh's affinity for remembering the tragic event stems from serving nearly seven years in the Navy as an air crewman. His service included Desert Storm and Desert Shield.

The oath he's sworn to uphold was made in 2000. That's when Harbaugh was teaching computer classes to older veterans in Southern California. The Pearl Harbor Survivors Association met in the same building. He approached them, got hooked and eventually was made an honorary member. As such, he took an oath to follow its motto: Remember Pearl Harbor and keep America alert.

Harbaugh, 48, who lives just north of Summerlin, took his themed motorcycle to Mountain View Lutheran School, 9550 W. Charleston Blvd., twice and spoke with students. The decorated bike "was like a magnet," he said. A teacher later told him that all the children had gone on the Internet to learn more about Pearl Harbor.

He also has been interviewed on radio, spoken before the American Legion Post 149, ridden the bike in parades and made appearances with it at special events.

Ed Hall, 86, was a truck driver for the Army Air Corps at Pearl Harbor when the Japanese attacked. He said Harbaugh's devotion to honoring that tragedy would result in more people understanding its significance.

"It's not really taught in school, not enough," he said. "Many people don't even know where Pearl Harbor is or even what it is."

Harbaugh used his skills as a longtime photographer to take an estimated 30,000 pictures of the survivors at various events over the years. They, too, are part of his mission.

"Everyone would ask me for copies, and they all wanted different shots, so I figured I'd put them (the photos) in a book," he said.

That book is titled "Pearls of Honor: Their Duty to Remember." He plans to self-publish it and has had a sample printed. But he said its content still needs work and has no set completion date.

In 2008, he bought a new Harley-Davidson Cross Bones motorcycle and began having it engraved with depictions from that fateful day: a quote from Adm. Isoroku Yamamoto on awakening a sleeping giant; depictions of the vessels that were torpedoed and bombed; and the number of soldiers who died in the attack. The USS Arizona also is on it, seen in three stages -- as it looked at sea, how it looked after being torpedoed and the monument at Pearl Harbor. In all, 1,177 men died on that ship.

Sandy Steiner of Chrome Fusion and his son, Jason Steiner, did the hand engraving. Dwight Purcell of Purcellz Customz did the paint work. Shirley Zanelli of BadAss Seats did the leather work.

Sandy Steiner said the depictions took "a million and a half hours" to complete. He is an Army veteran, and while most of the shop's jobs are intricate, "this was the most engraving we've ever done on a motorcycle."

The bike was finished in 2009. It's been named Metal of Honor.
Pearl Harbor survivor John Finn is 100. His likeness is engraved on the gas tank, as is his Congressional Medal of Honor. He signed the gas tank next to his image.

On Dec. 7, 1941, Finn kept gunning at the Japanese Zeros even though he took 20 hits from flying shrapnel during the attack.
"He's a rock star in the veterans' world," Harbaugh said.

On Veterans Day, Nov. 11, he'll have Metal of Honor at the Harley-Davidson Museum in Milwaukee. Meanwhile, he plans to attend Pearl Harbor Survivor Association events in California and Nevada.

Contact Summerlin and Summerlin South View reporter Jan Hogan at jhogan@viewnews.com or 387-2949.

Teaching Virtues Early...

2010-05-11T17:08:00.000-07:00

(Photo: Ed Hall, President of the Las Vegas Chapter of the Pearl Harbor Survivors, takes great care in helping these young Americans who volunteered to march in a recent Veterans Day Parade with the Pearl Harbor Survivors... teaching the young the virtues of Service, Patriotism and Loyalty comes naturally to all the Survivors)

We have decided to post a letter recently received from a 10th grade student from Brenham High School in Brenham, Texas addressed to the President of the Las Vegas Chapter of the Pearl Harbor Survivors... along with the response from the President.

Honor, Respect, Kindness, Thankfulness, Service... such virtues among many others are indeed still being taught to our youth in segments of the country.

First Letter:

Student Amie Meaux
Brenham High School
525 A. H. Ehrig Dr.
Brenham, TX 77833

March 22, 2010

Edward Hall
Las Vegas, NV 89131

Dear Mr. Hall

My name is Amie Meaux. I am a 10th grade student at Brenham H.S. in Brenham, Texas. On February 18th of this year, Mr. Larry Cappetto came and talked to our school about the “Lest they be forgotten” program.

I just wanted to take this opportunity to say thank you for your service to our country. It is because of your bravery during World War II that I am allowed many great opportunities.

Thank you very much for your service ot the United States. It is greatly appreciated.

Sincerely,

Amie Meaux

Reply Letter from Silver State Chapter 2 President Edward E. Hall

Dear Amie Meaux,

What a wonderful surprise to hear from you! Thank for writing me. It delights me to know you have taken an interest in what took place at Pearl Harbor.

Our country is worth fighting for. America is the best there is. We must defend it to keep it free.

I will share your letter with the other members of the Pearl Harbor Survivors. It will delight them all.

It’s so nice to know you realize and appreciate (as I’m sure many others do.) the lives that were lost to make sure we all remain free and able to take advantage of our opportunities. Make good use of all that is offered to you and never forget the brave men that keep our country free. I would be happy to answer any of your questions and hear from you again. Thank you!

Sincerely,

Edward E. Hall
President of the Pearl Harbor Survivors

P.S. Remember Pearl Harbor and Keep America Alert!

Virtual Virtues

2010-04-11T07:33:00.000-07:00

(click to enlarge photo)

After more than ten years of interacting with the Survivors of the attack on Pearl Harbor, one thing continues to keep pushing me forward with this project… the quite-real and recurring sense that the Good Lord above has placed this calling in my path.

Otherwise seemingly mundane photographs, stories and anecdotes witnessed, upon further reflection, hold in them strange ironies and historical coincidences that invariably leave me with a sense of awe and wonderment if indeed it truly was I who pushed the button on the camera or God Himself.

Similar to the words within the title of this book, Pearls of Honor: Their Duty to Remember, from its inception, I have hoped to show with great clarity and example how the Survivors carry with them what most Americans believe are those long lost virtues such as Honor, Duty, Fidelity, Truth, Loyalty, Honesty, Courage, Heroism, Devotion, Humility, Integrity, Knowledge, Love, Perseverance, Piety, Selflessness, Thankfulness, Trust, Wisdom.

Most Americans know how, most-profoundly in the 1960’s, a large portion of the population began to publicly berate, besmirch, belittle, demean, ridicule and or otherwise show great contempt for anything in popular culture that even remotely touched upon or aspired to, classical virtues.

Anyone suggesting that such virtues should be held out as goals for not only our young, but for all citizens was, and in many arenas still is, held out for public derision.

The Pearl Harbor Survivors are one of the few last remaining public examples for our young people to look up to and actually see such virtue not only in words, but in action.

Likewise, it seems as though God once again over the last few months, wished to ensure that I had a constant reminder of the antithesis of such virtues. He wanted me to have, and has given me, a daily reminder of the pain and anguish that such callous and arrogant disregard for such virtues can bring to a society… so that hopefully, my words in this upcoming book can tell future generations how truly honorable these “Pearls of Honor” have been… and how they, with great fidelity and loyalty carried out “Their Duty to Remember.”

Hopefully, the stories and images of these true American heroes will provide at least one small example of what virtues are and the corresponding dignity that comes to those who aspire to them.

Pearl Harbor Day - December 7th

2009-12-05T09:05:00.001-08:00

Image from US Navy archives

Monday is the 68th anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor.

Video Courtesy of KSL.com

Interview with Survivor Louis Wolff off the USS Maryland

Here in Las Vegas, our small Survivor community is being hosted at the Nellis Airforce Base Officers Club for a luncheon. We are also taking Metal of Honor out to Mountain View Lutheran School to visit the 5th grade class. Then on Tuesday, we'll be at R.O. Gibson Middle School to visit the 6th grade Magnet morning reading classes.

Around the country, there are a number of events marking the day. Here are just a few:
Everett, Washington
Honolulu, Hawaii
Arkansas
Montgomery, Albama
Moline, IL
Contra Costa County, CA
Alameda, CA
Boston, Mass.
Washington, D.C.
Alaska
Cranford, NJ
Georgia
Fredericksburg, TX

PHSA list of upcoming events

Survivor and Eyewitness Stories
Louis Wolff, USS Maryland
LTJG Joe Tezanos
William F. "Bill" Bryant
VFW Talk Radio interviews William Muehleib
Carl E. Clark
Harold Tussey
Harold Shore
Joseph Steffan
Joseph McDonald
Paul Landgraf

Ships and Stations involved in the attack
USS Arizona

Summaries of the attack
A summary of the attack and the events leading up to it
Wikipedia on the attack
Contra Costa Demonstrator
National Geographic
Taipei Times

Images of the attack from the Navy

Public reaction to the attack from the Library of Congress

Japanese Subs found by National Geographic

Socking it to the troops with the Blue Star Moms

2009-11-30T12:58:00.000-08:00

Our friend Cheré called last week and asked us to come over to photograph the Blue Star Mothers of NV (Henderson & Boulder City chapter) while they packed up holiday care packages and Christmas stockings for NV servicemen and women. With the help of many businesses who donated items, lots of ladies who sewed up the stockings and an army of determined volunteers, the Moms sent over 1,000 stockings out, just in time to brighten up the holidays.

It was quite an operation with assembly line stuffing and boxing.

The gentlemen in the suit is the Mayor of Henderson, who came out despite an injured hand, to show his support. Of course, the news crew came too...

Volunteers swarm over the pile of stuffed stockings to get them boxed for shipping.

These two gents took a well deserved break after helping to reduce the mammoth pile of stockings to boxed and sealed packages.

We could have just taken pictures, but that's not what we do ... so here's Krystal sealing and taping boxes for the overseas flight.

The moms ran low on socks and a few other supplies. We got the operation back on track with a trip to Costco. You should have seen all the strange looks we got with two cases of socks on the cart. That's 296 pairs of warm feet right there with 1,000 clean pairs of hands, 24 hot meals, 12 packs of beef jerky, lots of candy and many cans of fruit.

There's no doubt that Cheré knows where her son is. As you gather with your friends and family this season, take a few minutes to send good thoughts to our troops for a safe return home.

More pictures

Toys for Tots Charity Golf Tournament at Nellis AFB

2009-11-23T09:31:00.000-08:00

Last week, we attended the annual Toys for Tots Charity Golf Classic at Nellis Air Force Base. As it was the weekend before Aviation Nation, we were treated to quite the airshow. Some of our pics are below.

B-25 Mitchells used to great effect by flyers off the USS Hornet in the Doolittle Raid to bomb Tokyo, Japan and 4 other cities 4 months after the Pearl Harbor attack.

During the practice flying for the Aviation Nation Air Show at Nellis Airforce Base we got buzzed by history. Wish we could have gotten a closer in shot, but it's not wasy to catch planes flying over 200 mph!

From top left, an F-4 Phantom which flew during Vietnam, a P-38 Lightning from World War II which was fast enough to outrun the German Messerschmitts, an F-86 Sabre from the Korean War which fought Russian-made MIGs, and an A-10 Warthog which is flying right now over Afghanistan and Iraq.

A C-17 Globemaster III (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/C-17_Globemaster_III) shows off her surprising agility over the golf course at Nellis Air Force Base during the Toys for Tots Golf Tournament.

Perfect blue sky shot of two Navy planes with a little Photoshop

Story in The Answer

2009-11-23T09:25:00.000-08:00

Metal of Honor and the work I do with the Las Vegas Pearl Harbor Survivors will be in the December issue of The Answer. We met the editor Toni Terrell while having lunch with the Survivors just before Veteran's Day. She was intrigued by seeing us with this group, as we are obviously not Survivors ourselves. After explaining our drive to help the Survivors' legacy live on, she decided to do a story on our work.

The passing of a hero...

2009-11-18T09:55:00.000-08:00

My memories of Colonel Lewis L. Millett

Col. Lewis Millett, Who Led 'Bayonet Hill' Charge, Dies at 88

Daring soldier was awarded Medal of Honor

The Medal of Honor (and just about every other award the US military can bestow upon a person) are what caught my attention when I first met Colonel Millett. Being military myself, I know more than most what it takes to earn even one of these honors and this guy could have filled a safe-deposit box with his ribbons and medals!

How could one man earn so many medals? How much effort, toil, blood and sacrifice has this man given for this nation? How many wars was he in? How many battles was he in? My God, do they make men any tougher than this one?

Later, I learned that he fought in World War II, Korea and Vietnam. In the middle of 1941 (before Pearl Harbor), Millett actually deserted from the US Army to join the Canadian Army in order to be able to actively fight the rise of fascism and the Nazis. He was upset that FDR had pledged to keep America out of the war. He was court-martialed for desertion, but when his paperwork finally caught up with him after he'd fought his way across Italy, he was charged only a $52 dollar fine and promoted due to his uncommon acts of bravery. His life story reads like an action movie script writer's dream and his conviction in defense of the ideals of American freedom was unshakable. This man was the real life incarnation of that imaginary war hero I saw on TV and looked up to as a kid. I count myself lucky to have known him, in even the small way that our paths crossed.

Over the course of 10 years photographing the Pearl Harbor Survivors at various events in the San Diego area, every so often I would see Colonel Millett in attendance. Many events that Survivor and Medal of Honor Recipient John Finn attended would also bring out other Medal of Honors. Happy occasions such as John Finn's 95th birthday in 2004 were my favorites. In this photo, the Colonel's daughter Elizabeth helps him get his jacket straightened as he enters the party.

Here he is shown laughing with several other Medal of Honors during the party.

From left: Col. Millett, John W. Finn, One of John's friends from Kanehoe.
Back Row: Jay Vargas and John J. McGinty III

But of course, there are the many solemn memorials for the "Greatest Generation" as they leave us with memories and a duty to try to fill their shoes. Here, Colonel Millett was arriving aboard the USS Ronald W. Reagan (CVN-76) for the memorial services of a fellow Medal of Honor Recipient Vice Admiral James B. Stockdale.

Colonel Millett with Medal of Honor Recipients John Finn (seated) Walter D. Ehlers and John J. McGinty III. (right to left)

Just meeting this hero so many times left me wanting to chat with him whenever possible. Although he was seemingly a man of few words, his presence was to me, and to all who met him, larger than life.

Farewell, Lewis. May you be watched over in your rest and dream the dreams of true heroes.

Pearl Harbor Survivors on KNPR State of Nevada

2009-11-17T11:10:00.001-08:00

Pearl Harbor Survivors Ed Hall and Clif Dohrmann (with his wife Ginnie) enjoyed their appearance on KNPR's award-winning local affairs program State of Nevada. The conversation ranged over a number of topics, from the importance of Remerbering Pearl Harbor and World War II to my upcoming book about the Survivors to our opinions as veterans on Post Tramautic Stress Disorder and the VA's treatment of veterans from all wars. The episode was broadcast on 11-11-2009 in honor of Veteran's Day. You can listen online here.

2009 Las Vegas Veteran's Day Parade with the Pearl Harbor Survivors

2009-11-17T10:32:00.001-08:00

I was so honored to escort our local Pearl Harbor Survivors for the 2009 Las Vegas Veteran's Day Parade. Ginnie (the Vice President's wife, who organizes the parades) was very concerned that they wouldn't be able to appear because none of them are strong enough to carry the banners and flags for the mile plus parade route. She asked me to find some volunteers. My marketing director Krystal's daughter and and her family and friends were happy to help out.

I rode Metal of Honor in the front, followed by the big banner carried by Holly and best friend Madison, Dr. Collins and Madison's Grandpa Ken came next, proudly carrying the American flag and the Survivors flag followed by the Survivors in two cars. Ike (89), Jack (94, the oldest Survivor in Las Vegas) and Tiny Gold and Clif (88, Vice President of the Chapter) & Ginnie Dohrmann were able to make it out. President Ed Hall and his wife Doreen had to cancel due to illness. Krystal and Norah (with her two patriotic parade dogs) roamed up and down the group, passing out bumper stickers and bookmarks to the huge crowds. We ran out before we even hit the halfway mark! Krystal decked out the cars with ribbon and tinsel, not to mention painting & decorating the kids.

Despite Clif's advancing age, he marched alongside the car for most of the route. The crowd gave him a lot of applause. Ginnie told us later that we had made it so worry-free for them that if they are still able to drive next year, they will attend now that they know they have our support.

We are still adding to our flickr album, so please check back for more pics.

Vegas Valley Book Festival

2009-11-10T14:02:00.000-08:00

We had a great time out at the Vegas Valley Book Festival this weekend. Our friend Richard had a nice tent set up for us in the Local Authors Fair area in the historic Frank Lloyd Wright courtyard of the 5th Street School.

The bike got a lot of attention, but it was eclipsed by our special guests — local Survivor Clif Dohrmann and his wife Ginnie.

Las Vegas Pearl Harbor Survivor Clif Dohrmann (Navy Aircrew, Kanehoe Bay) tells a young man about his experiences on the morning of December 7, 1941 at the Pearls Of Honor booth during the local Authors Fair at the 2009 Vegas Valley Book Festival.

Clif spoke to several people about his experiences on December 7th and even took to the podium to educate the audience on the importance of supporting today's military personnel.

Two sisters listen intently to living history as local Pearl Harbor Survivor Clif Dohrmann recounts his experiences on the morning of December 7, 1941 during the Local Author's Fair at the 2009 Vegas Valley Book Festival. Mr. Dohrmann was the guest of author Dana Harbaugh. Mr. Harbaugh's book Pearls of Honor: Their Duty to Remember will profile the current activities of the Survivors to keep the memory of World War II and the attack on Pearl Harbor alive for today's generation.

Dana visits with Clif and Ginnie.

Ginnie showing some children a picture of the PBY aircraft that Clif flew aboard throughout World War II. Clif related that of the 36 PBYs stationed at Kanehoe Bay on December 7th, only 3 were intact after the Japanese attacks because they had been out on patrol.

When the Zeros arrived, the aircraft were parked wing to wing, fully fueled with 1,700 tons of high octane gas for Monday morning maneuvers. When the bombs and gun fire hit them, they went up like bombs themselves. There was little the Navy sailors could do. Clif and other sailors pulled machine guns from the burning planes and ran to the ammo lockers as fast as they could in an attempt to meet the threat from the air.

Dana yielded his time on the microphone over to Clif in order for the audience to get a taste of "living history" right from the mouth of a Survivor.

We hope to see our Las Vegas residents come out for tomorrow's Veteran's Day Parade. As I mentioned earlier, this will be the chapter's last parade. Join us at 4th Street and Gass Ave. at 10am to show your support for all of our troops and veterans.

Taping for KNPR's State of Nevada

2009-11-08T21:38:00.000-08:00

Image via Wikipedia

Dana will be joining local Pearl Harbor Survivors Clif Dohrmann and Ed Hall at KNPR's studio tomorrow morning to tape a segment for their local news and culture program State of Nevada. It will probably be broadcast on Tuesday or Wednesday of this week to coincide with Veteran's Day and the Survivors appearance in the Las Vegas Veteran's Day Parade. Due to their advanced ages, this will likely be the last year they are in the parade.

State of Nevada airs weekdays at 9am and repeats at 8pm. It is archived as a podcast if you miss the show.

If you have a question you like the Survivors to answer, please email the show.

Metal of Honor's first big media splash

2009-11-06T09:44:00.000-08:00

We just got word that Metal of Honor will be prominently featured in an upcoming issue of HOT BIKE Magazine. They will be doing a story on the creation of this exquisite work of art created by our team of Las Vegas-based artisans. More details as they come in.

VVBF This Weekend

2009-11-05T10:41:00.000-08:00

Nearing 90 years old, Las Vegas Survivor Clifton Dohrmann climbed right up on Metal of Honor for a picture during our visit to Nellis AFB in July of 2009. He was just delighted to see the bike and his picture on the front of the trailer. Once up on the bike, he gave Metal a good look over. He seemed very touched by the tribute to him and those he served with at Pearl Harbor.

While you're enjoying the Target Children's Book Festival during the Vegas Valley Book Festival, stop by to see Metal of Honor in the Plaza. You'll have the rare chance to meet living history in the person of our good friend Clif Dohrmann, Pearl Harbor Survivor. He'll be on hand to meet the kids and tell them a bit about life in the Service during World War II and elaborate on some of the images on our bike.Clif was in the Navy stationed at NAS Kanehoe Bay as part of a PBY Catalina aircraft crew on the day of the attack. He served a full 8 years and was in most of the major battles of the War. This is a great chance to introduce your kids to the War that shaped the world as we know it and get them excited about history.

Reading into it - Metal of Honor's next appearances

2009-10-30T17:52:00.001-07:00

Metal of Honor should be out of the shop tomorrow. She is having her exhaust pipes powder coated over at Chrome Fusion. Just in time, too, we have a busy week planned to kick off November.

Our first appearance with Metal of Honor is Saturday, November 7th from 10AM to 3PM during the 2009 Vegas Valley Book Festiva l. We'll be in the plaza at the 5th Street School (with the Target Children's Festival.)

The Vegas Valley Book Festival, the largest literature event in Las Vegas, will be held November 4 – 8, 2009, with most events taking place at the historic Fifth Street School downtown. Now in its eighth year, this annual community festival was founded on the simple premise of bringing together those who write books and those who love to read them. The five-day festival is presented by the City of Las Vegas Office of Cultural Affairs, Las Vegas-Clark County Library District, Nevada Humanities and the Las Vegas Review-Journal.

If all goes well, we'll have one or two of the local Pearl Harbor Survivors on hand to answer questions and meet the public. (It depends on their health, as they are all over 85.) We'll also have plenty of free Metal of Honor bookmarks and posters. This is a wonderful activity for families and anyone who loves a good story!

Image from : blog.lasvegasweloveit.com/

Then, on Wednesday, November 11th, I'll be riding Metal of Honor to escort the Las Vegas Pearl Harbor Survivors in the Veteran's Day parade in downtown Las Vegas. The parade starts at 10AM from 4th and Gass Avenue and continues to Stewart Avenue.

This is likely to be the LAST parade the Survivors appear in, as many are over 85 years old. Bring the whole family out to wish the Survivors well and show support for all of those who have served our great nation. You don't have any excuses - it's a CCSD school holiday and kids LOVE parades!

Then on Friday, Novemeber 13th, by special invitation from the Tournament organizers, we'll have Metal of Honor on display as part of the 8th Annual Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Golf Classic held at Nellis Air Force Base. If you wanna hit the links and get a sneak peek at the some of the crack flyers practicing for Aviation Nation over the weekend, this is your place to play! Not to mention it's a great opportunity to help the Marines make a great Christmas for some of the valley's needy kids. Of course, we'll have posters and bookmarks available.

The USMC Toys For Tots Golf Tournament (the Golf Tournament with “Air Cover”) held each year on the Friday preceding Aviation Nation weekend at the Sunrise Vista Golf Course at Nellis AFB, is now in its 8th year. This year’s Scramble tournament will begin with a shotgun start at 8AM on Friday, November 13.

Each year the participants enjoy a day of fun and socializing on the links – and - have the unique opportunity to watch the “Air Cover” as world class Aviators go through their the final “dress rehearsals” directly overhead on the last day before Aviation Nation begins. Thomas McGrath, Chairman of the Tournament Planning Committee and a founding member of the tournament said “If you plan to concentrate on your golf game, this is not the tournament for you. However, if you want to have a memorable day, have a chance at winning some tremendous prizes and, at the same time, provide children with Christmas toys...this is your tournament”.

Over the past 7 years, more than $90,000.00 has been raised by the tournaments to help provide Marines much needed support for our community’s children, who otherwise, might have no Christmas at all. Since 1947 Marines have been distributing shiny new toys to needy children and last year alone, the tournament contributed $25,000 in proceeds to benefit the Southern Nevada Toys for Tots program.

McGrath added, “in spite of the current economic environment, we are very encouraged by the early and strong interest from companies, individual players and other organizations in providing support for and participation in this most important fund-raiser”.

Whew! We hope to see you at one of these events! Have a great week!

Shine with Wizards

2009-10-30T17:28:00.000-07:00

When you have a bike like ours, you have to be very careful what products you use to clean and maintain the finish. Anything has any harsh abrasives could scratch Metal's chrome or paint. Worse, any residue left by the cleaner would leave gunk in the engravings, dulling their exquisite details. When Metal of Honor first came out of Chrome Fusion's shop, Jason recommended Wizard's Mist n' Shine as the only cleaner we needed.

So that's what we've been using, liberally applied to a multi-fiber polishing cloth. You just wipe the bike down with gentle strokes and the bike just GLOWS. The cleaner contains no wax, solvents or silicone. It doesn't have any petroleum in it to possibly damage the leather seat or discolor other parts of the bike if you did happen to over spray.

We've been really happy with it so far and gladly recommend it for any show bike. You can try it in a small size with this handy saddle pack containing a cloth, Mist n' Shine and two other detailing products.

Wizard's is also made in the USA, another plus in our book! You'll be hearing a bit more about Wizard's from us in the future, as we've struck up a relationship with them to do some promotional marketing with Metal of Honor.

Metal of Honor on Fremont Street

2009-10-05T16:03:00.000-07:00

Our friends in the band CTS made it possible for us to have Metal of Honor on display this weekend at the Fremont Street Experience. Catherine and her staff at Vegas Experience were so friendly and helpful, not to mention the nice folks at the Golden Nugget.

We were overwhelmed by the response from the public. The minute Dana pulled the bike in, the crowds started. We had anywhere from 2 to 20 people around all the time. We must have talked to two thousand people over the two days. Since this was Bike Fest weekend, of course a lot of fellow motorcycle riders - many of them veterans - saw the bike. Fremont Street is also very popular with tourists, so we also saw a lot of kids and families. I enjoyed watching people do that double take as they were walking and get drawn into looking at all the engravings. The many emotions passing over the faces of the vets and the public were truly awe inspiring.

It was a great venue for us and I hope they invite us back.

Metal of Honor looked lovely under the world's largest sign.
Who is John Finn and why did he sign our gas tank?

Quite a few people, including these two lovely ladies, asked Dana to sign posters or pose for photos. It was the first time he got to feel a little bit like a rock star.

My mom (a.k.a. the Deontos Publishing Booth Mama) got into the spirit of Fremont Street's Summer of '69 promotion and wore one of my brother's Jerry Bear tye dyes.

The cameras came out to snap pictures of Metal of Honor - especially from the many veterans who were at Fremont Street over the weekend.

We didn't have stanchions until a bit later in the day on Friday,
but everyone was very respectful of the bike.

American Know-how in action

2009-09-27T10:33:00.001-07:00

Check out this awesome mini bike by DPX Systems. We met Anthony out here at The 2009 SuperRun. Yes, the mini bike is powered entirely by a 18-volt DeWalt Cordless drill - the very same one you can buy at any home improvement store. Krystal and I both took it for a spin and it's a blast to ride!

We really admire the innovative thinking that went into this and Anthony's other uses for the drill driven unit. Check out his drive systems that use a drill to turn a manual wheelchair into a powered model and allow a full size Harley Davidson or other heavy cargo to to be lifted into the bed of a truck, by one person. This is the kind of thinking that will move America forward in the 21st century and it's local! Anthony is based right here in Vegas.

Las Vegas Bike Fest on Fremont Street

2009-09-27T09:50:00.000-07:00

We'll be out on Fremont Street with Metal of Honor 2-11pm on Friday and Saturday night (10-2 & 3) while our friends from CTS take the main stage. Come down at say hello! We'll be set up just east of the outdoor seating at the Satrbucks (Golden Nugget).

Hot rods as far as the eye can see

2009-09-27T09:45:00.000-07:00

We're updating our flickr stream with pics of the hundreds of gorgeous cars and bikes out here at Super Run 2009 in Henderson, NV.

SuperRun 2009

2009-09-25T10:05:00.000-07:00

The view of Water Street from our tent in the front parking lot of the Rainbow Club

We're out with Metal of Honor today and tomorrow for the 2009 SuperRun Car and Bike show in Henderson, NV. The event is free and families are encouraged to attend. Water Street (henderson's main drag) and many of the side streets are shut down for the next few days while classic, custom and show cars and bikes take over the city's downtown Business District.

When we came in at 7:30 this morning, it was already packed. One of the fellows at the gate found us a place for the trailer - even though we had to squeeze in. His dad is a Pearl Harbor Survivor and the pictures of the many Survivors on the trailer swayed him right to our side. So we got all set up on Panama and Pacific street next to a sweet blue Mustang.

Then I went wandering and met the VFW guys in the parking lot at The Rainbow Club. The GM and the Assistant GM immediately invited us to move the bike and trailer over here once I showed them a picture. Someone hadn't shown up and they had THE PERFECT SPOT open for both the bike and the trailer. I guess it was fate. Metal of Honor is parked in front of the trailer and getting all kinds of "stop in their tracks" looks. The staff and security here at The Rainbow are the friendliest and most professional of folks. Next time you're in Henderson, you should stop in for some of this old-fashioned hospitality!

20-year Army Veteran Oakie having a good look at Metal of Honor

We put out last week's four 1st Place plaques from the Cub Scouts Car and Bike Show at Red Rock Harley. It was a small show, but you can tell the boys worked so hard on the plaques. We wanted them to be on display in case any of the boys and their family come down. Plus, I'm very proud of my first sweep of trophies for Metal of Honor. It's like seeing your kid get an "A" on her first spelling bee. Baby steps to greatness ;)

In progress photos of the new Visitor's Center

2009-09-14T07:54:00.000-07:00

The current Visitor's Center at The USS Arizona Memorial in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii . Most of this building will be rennovated or replaced once the new Center is completed. Expected opening date is December 7, 2010.

The Pearl Harbor Memorial Fund website has a neat time lapse show of the construction underway at the new Visitor's Center. You'll need to install the Silverlight plus in to view the show.

Back to back Bike Shows

2009-09-14T07:32:00.000-07:00

Please come out and see us at Red Rock Harley Davidson on Saturday, Sept. 19th for the Cub Scouts 1st Annual Car, Bike and Truck show. They are collecting food for area food banks. With the current conditions in Las Vegas, every food bank is being over run with requests for aid. Let's see if we can surround Metal of Honor with canned goods!

Then next weekend, September 26th we'll be down on Water Street in Henderson for the 2009 Super Run Car Show. They close off the whole street and line it with hotrods, bikes and other special interest cars. Bands and food, too!

Both events are free to attend and make a great day out for the family. Don't forget your sunscreen!

A TRUE "Wrap Artist!"....

2009-09-13T05:45:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, September 12th, AIGA held its Tenth Anniversary Las Vegas Work Show to showcase the best graphic design artists in Nevada.

My incredibly talented “Graphic Artist”, now-turned Marketing Director, Krystal Hosmer entered into this annual contest the finished design of our Pearls of Honor Trailer… which hauls the beautiful “Metal of Honor” Pearl Harbor Tribute Motorcycle to various events.

Last evening, Krystal received this award for her work on the design, and all I can say is… “I could of told AIGA that you were the best."

When I first started the work on this proposed book of photos of the Pearl Harbor Survivors, it was my greatest hope that these photographs would be displayed in the highest quality book format that I could afford. As well, given that I have never been a "professional" photographer, it would be critical that any digital work on the photos would need to be extensive and of the highest quality.

After working with Krystal for as long as it has been, I can honestly say that she is truly a God-send, and not only does she bring to the table the incredibly high skill level recognized last evening by her peers, but she brings with her a true and deeply engrained respect for who the Pearl Harbor Survivors are and where they stand in this nation's history... a combination of attributes that I know will help to make this project second to none.

Congratulations Krystal, you're awesome!

Lucky shots

2009-09-11T13:00:00.000-07:00

As he zoomed by to join the main column, Krystal got the most amazing shot of one of The Honor Run chase riders.

And here's mine of this fellow giving The Honor Run a salute from the top of the bridge on I-215 and the 15 as we entered Vegas.

Abestos exposure could cause cancer for our service members

2009-09-10T08:28:00.001-07:00

We received this request and felt we should share the info below with the Veteran community.

Thanks for getting back to me. I represent Mesothelioma.com, a leading Internet resource for information about mesothelioma, a fatal form of cancer. I am also a veteran of the United States Navy, and a proud advocate for veterans. In addition to public outreach efforts, I maintain the Mesothelioma.com Veterans Blog, which provides news and information specifically for veterans.

As you may know, mesothelioma cancer is caused by previous exposure to asbestos. Countless veterans were exposed to asbestos while aboard naval ships, while repairing military vehicles and aircraft, and while residing in aging military housing. Troops currently serving in Iraq are also at risk of asbestos exposure, making this a very timely health and safety issue for veterans and all members of the military community.

Because Mesothelioma.com has such crucial information to share with veterans, I would like to inquire about adding a resource link to our veteran medical support section on your website. I am confident that the information we provide, including content focused on military asbestos exposure, a listing of veteran-specific hospitals and medical centers, and a database of medical & legal resources for veterans will benefit all who visit our site.

Thanks for taking the time to consider my request, and I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Yours in health and service,

Doug

Douglas Karr
Veteran, United States Navy
Mesothelioma.com Veterans Advocate
dkarr@mesothelioma.com

Patriot Day

2009-09-10T08:05:00.000-07:00

Survivors of the 911 attacks. Photo from 9-11 Blogger.com.

Tomorrow, 9-11 is Patriot Day.

On this day, the President directs that the American flag be flown at half-staff at individual American homes, at the White House, and on all U.S. government buildings and establishments, home and abroad. The President also asks Americans to observe a moment of silence beginning at 8:46 A.M. (Eastern Daylight Time), the time of the first plane crash on September 11, 2001.

Wear your colors, observe the silence and fly your flags in memory.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ejjOd96SBaw

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=84b949k8HCw

Living History and the last parade

2009-09-10T06:35:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, Dana and I went to pay a visit to Clifton and Ginnie Dohrmann. Nearing 90, Clif is a local Pearl Harbor Survivor. When he was in high school in the late 30's, he had to be part of a debate for English class in which he had to defend the Russian position against the Nazi position. He did a great deal of research to make sure he understood both sides. This convinced him that another war was inevitable and that both positions were going to aggressivly come after the United States.

Clif and Ginnie at their Las Vegas Home

So at 16, he lied about his age to the recruiter and joined the Iowa National Guard. As tensions flared over seas, he knew he had to enlist. He joined the Navy and was in boot camp being trained in ground warfare, watching the old movies from WWI on mustard gas and trench warfare. (He quickly decided maybe he didn't want to be calvary, after all.) He did get a bit of a surprise one day when he was pulled out of line to see the commanding officer, who was not too happy that Clif was A.W.O.L. from the Iowa National Guard! He had completely overlooked this small detail in his fierce desire to serve.

Clif also told us about about his PBY Catalina aircraft going down in the Pacific off Hawaii in the early part of 1941. While on patrol, his amphibious plane with a crew of 9 aboard sprung an oil leak and they had to set down in open water. Clif fixed the leak and they radio'd for help. They didn't have enough engine oil to get airborne again, but the plane was otherwise okay and floating on the water. A passing squad of PBYs on the way from San Diego to Pearl Harbor answered their distress call and notified the base to send out rescue. They were in the water for three days before a US destroyer showed up on the horizon. They were over 700 miles from shore. They offloaded some of the crew onto the destroyer, but there was no reason to abandon a perfectly good plane. Clif used gun cleaning oil from the destroyer to refill the oil tank. The ship's skipper then pulled up behind the downed plane and used it's wake to give the plane enough of a push to get it airborne and they returned safely to Oahu.

Despite these early hiccups, Clif went on to serve throughout World War II. On the day of the attack on Pearl Harbor, he was stationed with his PBY aircraft crew at Kanehoe Bay. He related that he spent much of the war away from home. Ginnie said he came back once for a month or so, but otherwise was in battle zones for over 5 years as the fighting raged. He reenlisted in the middle of the war and served 8 full years.

Although we really enjoyed hearing Clif's stories, the purpose of our visit was to speak to Clif and Ginnie about the upcoming Vet's Day parade in November. At the last meeting, Dana was told that the Survivors here feel it will most likely be their last Veteran's Day parade as many of them are in poor health and all are over 80.

In years past, they have gone in their own cars with the windows up as it can be a bit chilly in November. They wave to the crowd, but it is difficult for the crowd to see them and unless they are near the reviewing stand and can hear the announcements, no one knows WHO it is they are seeing. After observing how the Survivors in San Diego and other parts of the country attend parades, it's not the parade going experience we feel that they deserve. In those cities, Survivors are usually driven in some kind of trolley, seated on a flat bed truck, driven in convertible classic cars or ride on military vehicles with a walking escort of flag bearers, serving troops, R.O.T.C. or Reserves.

Mustering for the 2009 4th of July Parade in Cornado, CA, the Cub Scouts prepare this float with a replica of the USS Arizona Memorial in Pearl Harbor, while uniformed Navy Corpsmen prepare to provide a walking escort for John W. Finn.

In San Diego, Old Town Trolley generously donates the use of their trolleys and drivers to the Survivors for just about every parade they attend.

One of the San Diego Pearl Harbor Survivors is driven in a classic car while the trolley behind is filled with more Survivors.

Dana and I would like our local Survivors to really have the chance to enjoy this last parade with no concerns for logistics or driving and most importantly, be able to have this experience with friends they haven't seen in months or years because they have been unable to attend meetings or visit them at the nursing home. Several of the Survivors cannot drive anymore. With the blessing of Clif and Ginnie, who do most of the logistics for them to attend parades, we're speaking to several local sources to see if we can secure a comfortable, open air vehicle(s) for them and their spouses (about 20 total) as well as transport to and from the parade for those who can't drive. We'll keep you all posted on our progress.

Check our Flickr stream for The Honor Run 2009 pics

2009-09-08T13:46:00.000-07:00

We have a brand new flickr stream. I'll be adding to it over the next few days as I process the pics we took on our recent trip with The Honor Run.

This first set is from Bigg's Harley Davidson in San Marcos on Friday evening.

Days of Thunder with The Honor Run

2009-09-04T21:50:00.000-07:00

THURSDAY 9-3-09

Me saluting one of the support vans for The Honor Run.

Parking lot in Mesquite full of bikes.

Lots of people stopped to have a look at Metal of Honor and hear how she was created.

The table we brought was a little small, but the friendly event staff at Casablanca fixed us up with a HUGE one just after we took this pic. The girls say that Anthony at the Front Desk is also "awesome!"

CTS ( Consider the Source) put on a great show!

Everyone was stopped in their tracks to do a double take on Metal of Honor and really look over the engravings.

We hooked up with The Honor Run at Mesquite, NV yesterday. They have a small group of core riders, who have been with the Run since they left Washington, DC. Riders are joining the Run at various points and leaving when they want.

In Mesquite, there were about 100 bikes. CTS put on a great show in the tent provided by the very friendly folks at Casblanca Hotel and Casino. Darryl and his staff were so considerate and efficient!

Norah, newly inducted hero groupie, holding John Baca's Medal of Honor while John wonders if she's going to give it back.

We got set up and a LOT of people stopped to check out Metal of Honor, including my friend, John Baca (MOH, Vietnam). John even let Norah and Krystal hold his Medal. Yep, my employees are all hero groupies now! Seriously, John is a great guy and has been riding in a support vehicle with The Honor Run since it left D.C.

Mike Kerr, who organized The Honor Run, welcomes the riders to the party in Mesquite.

Kickstands up at 6am to head out to San Marcos, CA.

We're with The Run til the party on Saturday and have been tweeting with pics from the road. Follow us on twitter if you wanna see us thunder down I-5 past Camp Pendleton and all those flags tomorrow.

We're outta here!

2009-09-03T08:04:00.001-07:00

The Honor Run rolling into Colorado.

Dana is on the way over with Metal of Honor, the trailer and my sister for our trip to meet up with The Honor Run. We'll be posting to the blog and tweeting while we're on the road. I am also supposed to learn to use the video camera and hopefully gets some videos of our adventures up for you all to enjoy. Hope you enjoy the ride with us!

How could they?

2009-08-31T14:50:00.000-07:00

Alvin Mays, a Pearl Harbor Survivor, living in Augusta, GA runs a landscaping nursery. Thieves have hit his place 4 times in the last few months, stealing equipment and costly plants. See the video here.

The right note for Service

2009-08-31T09:36:00.000-07:00

We heard something on the radio on Friday about a corps of volunteer bugle men & women who honor our Veterans with a live playing of Taps at every funeral they can. The all volunteer core is called Bugles Across America and was started by Tom Day, who felt our service men and women deserved more than just a CD or an electronic "fake" bugle as authorized by Congress. These "alternative methods" are only used when a live bugler is not available. There is a shortage of serving buglers, so he is actively recruiting anyone who can play Taps to attend funerals in their area and show their respect to the departed and the family with a live salute.

Bugles Across America now has over 5000 bugler volunteers located in all 50 states and growing number overseas. Since the Department of Veterans Affairs is expecting more than 1/2 million veterans to pass every year for the next 7 years, Bugles Across America is ALWAYS recruiting new volunteers.

Bugler Volunteers can be male or female. They can play a traditional bugle with no valves, or they can perform the ceremony on a Trumpet, Cornet, Flugelhorn, or a 1, 2 or 3 valved bugle. The bugler can be of any age as long as they can play the 24 notes of Taps with an ease and style that will do honor to both the Veterans, their families, and the burial detail performing the service.

I find anything less than a real bugler to be disrespectful to the family and would like to take a minute here on #militarymon to recognize this great group for the honor they do our vets.

Prepping for the Honor Run

2009-08-31T08:08:00.000-07:00

A few of the vets who are riding with the Honor Run.

We have just about everything together to join The Honor Run in Mesquite, NV on Thursday, September 3rd.

Metal of Honor will be on display under the big tent at the Casablanca Resort in Mesquite, NV on September 3rd. Stop by and see how much you know about Pearl Harbor as you look over the engravings on the bike.

We'll trailer the bike and chase the Run from Mesquite to San Marcos, CA on September 4th.

I'll ride Metal of Honor the last 50 miles from San Marcos, CA to Oakley Sunglasses Headquarters on September 5th. The bike will then be on stage with Medal of Honor recipient John Finn (if his health allows.)

I'm really excited to hear that a portion of the monies raised will go to a Fischer House here in Las Vegas at the new VA Hospital. I encourage all my fellow vets and riders to join us for the NV leg from Mesquite to Baker, CA and make a donation for our hometown vets.

The cross country leg of the Honor Run is leaving Missouri this morning, on the way to Kansas. You can follow the progress of the run at their blog.

More information about the Honor Run
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The Honor Run, on the other hand, has become just that. Being denied the opportunity to go to Afghanistan or Iraq and still wanting to give back to our military, Barr joined forces with the president of the 1st Marine Division Association, Oceanside, Colonel Len Hays, USMC, ret., Harry Steelman and Major Bill Mimiaga, USMC, ret., who in December of 2008 decided to expand on a state-wide riding concept developed in Texas. "Initially we were thinking of doing a one-day run in California but then we thought 'why not do a nationwide ride?' and it took off from there." Barr said. When the 1st Marine Division Association came on board the only looking back was in the side-view mirrors.

The first of three scheduled runs, Barr envisions this annual event to run indefinitely. "Each year I believe it will get bigger and better." Barr said as he begins to mention the seemingly endless list of supporters which are highlighted on the web page, www.thehonorrun.org.

Regardless if for three years or for thirty, the thousands of supporters and riders for The Honor Run are proud to join forces with Dave Barr in making this ride all about The Fisher House and the heroes therein. READ MORE
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In Memorial

2009-08-28T21:53:00.001-07:00

Local Pearl Harbor Survivor Ray Turpin was laid to rest this week. He passed away following a stroke. Our condolences to his family, especially our friends at Red Rock Harley. He was the grandfather of the Service Department Manager. More on Mr. Turpin from the LV Sun. Mr. Turpin served aboard the USS Oklahoma.

Challenge Coins

2009-08-25T09:26:00.001-07:00

John and Frances sent me this challenge coin created to honor his 100th birthday last month. It came with a as note thanking me for being part of his birthday celebrations. John gives these coins out to friends and people he meets as a kind of souvenir. Various groups or private individuals pay to have them minted for him. Many current and former military personnel have these coins made and the ones from high-ranking officials can be very valuable to collectors. In John's case, the coins are highly prized because of his status as the oldest living Medal of Honor recipient.

This coin will join the silver one shown below that John autographed for me for the Coronado 4th of July Parade. This one is a bit odd as there is a typographical error on the reverse of the coin, but the overall design is very well executed.

Along for the ride with Dwight and Sandy

2009-08-25T08:50:00.000-07:00

We've been asked by Dwight and Sandy to join them next week for the filming of an upcoming episode of Pawn Stars on the History Channel. The show is set at a local Vegas pawn shop and apparently, they've come across a 1959 Harley Davidson that they want to restore.

Dwight and Sandy will both be involved in the restoration project on the Harley as we mentioned in the last post. Dwight has the producers talked into doing a very short segment on Metal of Honor as an example of Dwight and Sandy's craftsmanship. Not sure exactly what to expect when we head over to Dwight's shop early next week, but I am all for any excuse to show Metal off. We hear the show will air very soon after filming. As soon as we have a date, we'll post it here.

Speaking of rides, we are also getting ready for The Honor Run during the first weekend of September. Still trying to find a good wireless credit card processor and outfits for my booth girls.

Haven't heard of The Honor Run? Got a motorcycle? Hit the road for our Heroes!

Ride for those who can't

America’s heroes need your help. Today’s technology mercifully moves an injured soldier from battlefield to fully-equipped hospital in less than an hour. What’s this mean? It means the number of amputees we bring home from war has skyrocketed over previous conflicts. It means 1 in 4 injured warriors now come home with a traumatic injury of some kind. And the hospitals they come home to, while better equipped to handle them, are often ill-equipped to provide for their families. What can we do? Here’s what we can do. There’s this thing called The Honor Run, a coast-to-coast ride that ends in Southern California with a massive party at the Oakley Headquarters in Foothill Ranch. You can ride all the way or just for a day for the same low price. The donations we raise will help a number of organizations take care of the men and women who took care of us. As well as their families.

Dave Barr, a double-amputee, will take off from the Vietnam Memorial in Washington D.C. on August 28th.

As he and his buddies pick up steam and riders crossing the country, they’ll roll through a bunch of states. Ending up at Oakley headquarters in Orange County, California for a monumental celebration.

Word is, this thing could be up to thousands as it thunders on home.

The 1st Marine Division Association is on board. So's law enforcement, firefighters and the Vietnam Veterans of America.

So’s CSI New York’s Gary Sinise and his Lt. Dan Band, scheduled to get it on at the giant celebration at Oakley on the 5th.

All we need are you and your brothers to ride with this very simple message.

"America, the time has come to pay back our heroes."

With pennies. Dollars. Jobs. Education. Care. Whatever we’ve got. There are no politics in these efforts. No Republicans. No Democrats. Only Americans. We need your help out there on the road. To ride. To support the ride. To spread the word on the ride. We need all of America, but the message starts with you. These are our heroes. They fought for all of us. Now’s our chance to fight for them.

Ride for them. Ride for you. Ride for honor.

posters and stickers are here!!!!!

2009-08-20T21:24:00.001-07:00

Here's what the new Remember Pearl Harbor bumper sticker looks like on Krystal's car. She finally managed to get one on the truck straight and with no bubbles, so we'll get a picture of that up soon.

.... and here's what Dwight's face (Purcellz Customz - Metal of Honor paint artist) looked like when we took him over a stack of posters, stickers, bookmarks and flyers. He is pictured on the flyer along with Sandy from Chrome Fusion (Metal of Honor engraver). Can you believe he said his mom was gonna be thrilled to see him on the flyer and that we made his day? He was really floored by how beautiful the photographer made Metal look in the pictures and loved the poster.

By the way, if you watch Pawn Stars on the history channel, look for Dwight's work in an upcoming episode. He is going to restore the paint on a 1950's era Harley Davidson pan head motorcycle for the show. He was on the phone with the show's producers when we arrived. Don't tell me I don't know how to pick talent! We just heard that Sandy is going to do the chrome work on the bike for the same episode. Maybe we'll go see if the Pawn Stars guys can peg the value on Metal of Honor? They appraise unique collectibles all day, right?

Yesterday, we took posters over to Red Rock Harley's service department. Matt and the crew there take the best care of Metal of Honor and my Street Glide whenever they have to go in.

Then we went to see Sandy, Jason and Joyce at Chrome Fusion to drop some posters for them. They are cooking up the neatest new cover products for their Austin Steiner line. This one in particular would make a great gift for a military man. They mentioned that a Remember Pearl Harbor coin to go inside the timing covers will be available soon. They are working with the mint on the design right now. Of course, I'll have to get one for the Street Glide as Metal already has a beautiful Purple Heart engraved on hers.

Then over to drop some posters off to Mark at Color Reflections. His team printed and installed Metal's trailer wrap.

Last stop, was at Nate's front porch. Had to leave quite a few posters for the photographer!

Give them the sign

2009-08-18T18:51:00.000-07:00

It takes a few seconds and means so much.

A big hand for the folks at Fort Campbell

2009-08-18T15:15:00.001-07:00

photos from AP

After decades, the soldiers and community of Fort Campbell, KY finally gave these Vietnam Era Vets the Welcome Home ceremony they deserve. Three cheers to them! Full story here from AP and NPR.

A little gift for our new buddy Troy

2009-08-16T20:54:00.000-07:00

I made up these new banner's for Bouhammer's Afghanistan blog as a thank you for having Dana on the Youserved Podcast last week. Troy was so nice when I asked him, right out of the blue, to have Dana on the show that I felt I should lend him a hand to make his blog rock even harder. If you have family in Afghanistan, or just want to know what's going on, Troy's blog is a great read. OOORAH!

Metal of Honor posters will soon be available

2009-08-12T12:11:00.000-07:00

We're going to send these posters to the printer this week. These gorgeous images were taken by our friend Nate over at Black Diamond Digital and the poster was put together by Krystal (the Marketing Director) with a great deal of over the shoulder direction by yours truly.

The 36" x 24" glossy posters will be available for purchase both here on the blog and when we do appearances with Metal of Honor.

If you'd like one, they are just $10 + $2.50 shipping. You can email Krystal to preorder one until we get the order button up on the blog. You can also request that we toss in a bumper sticker for $2 more.

Proceeds from these two items will be used to offset the travel costs to take Metal of Honor out on display. The truck and trailer average about 8-11 miles per gallon.

While we're on that subject ... did you remember to make plans to join us at the big finale party for The Honor Run? We'll have Metal on stage with John Finn (if his health allows). We also heard Gary Sinese and his Lt. Dan Band are on board for a concert.

Heroes and History on John Finn's 100th Birthday

2009-08-10T22:35:00.001-07:00

At the end of last month, Dana had the incredible honor of being invited to another one of John Finn's many 100th birthday parties. This one was held at Naval Air Station, North Island Coronado, CA on the 25th of July. Over 400 people were in attendance. Dignitaries, military brass from every branch and elected officials gathered with long time friends and several of John's old Navy shipmates. Of course, such a gathering is filled with historic import.

Robert J. Modrzejewski (Marine Corp, MOH, Vietnam) signs John's 100th birthday image.

Dana wrestled with what to present John on his big day. He finally settled on a gift that would be made more memorable by the other "special guests" we heard were invited — 12 of the other living Medal of Honor recipients. With the help of our friend Mark at Color Reflections, we created this mounted, archival image of John holding the sign from the highway near his home that has been renamed in his honor. In the background is the unfurled Medal of Honor society flag from the parade at Coronado on July 4th.

The party also afforded the opportunity to take this once-in-a-lifetme picture of the gathering of these American Heroes.

Left to Right standing: Leonard B. Keller, Richard A. Pittman, Drew Dix, Michael E. Thornton, Jay R. Vargas, Thomas R. Norris, Robert J. Modrzejewski, Walter J. Marm, Walter D. Ehlers, Jon R. Cavaiani

Seated: James A. Taylor, the widow of Admiral James B. Stockdale, and John F. Finn

Perhaps the most well traveled "guest" was this United States flag presented to John by the U.S. Navy. It was flown aboard every active duty aircraft carrier in preparation for John's big day. We've noted before the immense esteem John is held in by our serving sailors. He was quite touched by this gesture of respect.

Since Dana is a Navy man himself, he couldn't resist asking Lil Larkin (John's long time friend) to take this picture of him with a model of the Lockheed S3 Viking, presented to John by the VS-29 ordnancemen. It's the very same plane Dana served aboard during his tours of duty during the Gulf War. Next to it, is a picture of the sailors aboard the U.S.S. Stennis spelling out John's name out on the flight deck.

Here's the link to the Navy Compass newspaper's story.

Bumper Stickers off to press

2009-08-10T22:24:00.000-07:00

In preparation for our appearance during the Honor Run with John Finn at the big finale party on September 5th, we just sent these bumper stickers off to the printer. We'll have them for $2 each and will make them available for purchase on the blog once they get back from the printer around 8-20. Maybe we can raise enough cash to pay for the gas to get Metal and the trailer to Mesquite, then down to California and back.

The alternate design had the flowers & blue from the top of the blog, but Dana said that just wasn't gonna cut it for being put on a Harley. So I created this more reserved design. They look very good on his truck and we made it small enough (8" wide by 3" high) that it can go on the saddlebags of a motorcycle or helmet.

Confirmed for the Honor Run in September

2009-08-06T09:51:00.000-07:00

We'll be joining The Honor Run on September 3rd in Mesquite,NV with Metal of Honor. We are thrilled to be part of this great project and hope you'll ride with us in support of our returning heroes. It's just $35 to ride. Register or donate here.

Appearance on YouServed Radio episode #50

2009-08-06T08:40:00.000-07:00

Dana is out riding his Streetglide Harley this morning so he can clear his head for tonight's appearance on BlogTalk's Radio's You Served episode #50.

One of our great twitter friends is Troy Bouhammer, who is the cohost of the show. He writes at BouHammer's Afghanistan, Military Pundits and the YouServed Blog. He's a very active miliatry supporter with a long record of service himself and we can't say enough nice stuff about how helpful he's been in making Dana feel welcome during his first publicity experience related to the book and bike.

Dana will be on during the last half hour of the show. You can listen live or tune in later as the show archives within an hour or so of airing. Please join us in live chat so you can ask questions about Metal of Honor and Dana's book project.

Summary of the show:
Tonight we will feature Phil Taylor from The American Fallen Soldiers Project commits to honor, respect and forever remember those who have sacrificed their lives protecting our freedom while serving in our Armed Forces. The 501(c)3 non-profit organization makes available hand painted original portraits of America's fallen heroes to their families free of charge, and is supported solely through individual and corporate donations. http://www.americanfallensoldiers.com/ After Phil we will be talking to our old friend Matt Daniels from GreatAmericans.com. This is Matt's second time on the show and he will be on to give us an update on all the great things that GA is up to, to include some exciting new videos they have up on the site. We are also very honored to have Mr. Dana Harbaugh. Dana is the author of Pearls of Honor: Their Duty to Remember. Dana, through his own Deontos Publishing, tells a moving story of the Survivors and their mission, born of his deep friendship with the Survivors and their families. Dana is a Navy brat and a Navy man himself. He is a combat veteran twice awarded for heroism under fire. We will cover more of his military background later on in the show. The reason Dana is with us is not only to talk about his book but also because he purchased a 2009 Harley Davidson Cross Bones motorcycle which he made into a rolling tribute to the survivors of Pearl Harbor.

Supporting American jobs or Marketing dollars?

2009-08-04T10:31:00.000-07:00

So here I am, working hard on chapters of my book Pearls of Honor: Their Duty to Remember, while Krystal (my Marketing Director, book designer, and whatever else she is doing for me today person) is busy trying to find a way to print this book here in America.

Since it is about American heroes and our economy needs all the help it can get, I really feel that I want to spend my money in America on this project. It's no small chunk of change, either to print a 200+ page book, hardbound with a lots of full page photos. We got one quote that was $68,000 for 5,000 books. I am willing to pay, but that does eat into the budget to market the book once it is printed. It could be HALF the price to print overseas. So you see where this is not a nickel and dime debate I am having with myself.

I want as many people as possible to learn about the tireless efforts of the Pearl Harbor Survivors Association and see for themselves how they work to Keep America Alert, but at the same time, you have to make decisions that are best for your business and allow you to reach the widest reading audience.

We've been asking around to printers and publishers we know in the industry, looking for a more affordable "Made in America" option, but it looks like we may have to send the printing overseas, most likely to China. It seems to be the only cost effective way to have a coffee table book done these days. We looked at the 7 or 8 big coffee table books I have here at the house and all of them were manufactured overseas.

Any suggestions out there in blogland for another option we can try?

Update 8-10-09: We have changed the orientation & size of the book and MIGHT be able to swing printing it in Ohio or Canada. Awaiting quotes now.

Metal of Honor on the Move

2009-07-30T16:03:00.000-07:00

I went with Dana today to pick Metal of Honor up from Chrome Fusion. She was in the shop having her pipes re-coated. The original black powder coat was flaking off. The new powder coat has a high gloss instead of matte finish. Dana isn't sure he likes it as much, but it will wear MUCH Better and hopefully not flake off.

Here's Dana and Sandy (he did all the hand engraving on Metal of Honor) with the bike inside the shop. As you can see, Sandy is a very busy man with a bunch of projects in the hopper. He says he going to stop doing small projects and focus on full bike jobs, like Metal. So if you wanted an engraved bike, well now you know who to call!

We didn't bring the trailer so Dana rode Metal over to Red Rock Harley where she has to go into the shop again for a factory recall to replace something or other. He rarely gets to ride her and LOVES how loud and fast she is. Don't really get to open her up in traffic since I don't think we went over 40mph. A pretty sedate ride for him, but I did get to drive the large and luxurious Ford Explorer (or whatever this giant SUV is that he owns) behind him on the way over. No way am I letting some idiot get behind him and damage "my" Harley! I usually drive a tiny Nissan Versa and well, you certainly feel much more invulnerable in one of these tanks! Once I figured out where the parking brake was hidden so I could disengage it so it would quit beeping at me, I quite enjoyed the air conditioned seats. It was a mind-numbing 110 degrees in Vegas today, in case you were wondering.

Dana checking out the new tank guard leather piece from Shirley over at BadAss Seats.

Watch out - Woman driver with a camera! (hey, I can poke fun at myself but you better hush!)

A Special Tribute to a Special Sailor

2009-07-29T05:48:00.000-07:00

During the recent month-long series of celebrations for the 100th birthday of Medal of Honor Recipient John W. Finn, John was more-than happy to carry out a special request to administer the oath of reenlistment for a fellow Navy Aviation Ordnanceman.

This particular reenlistment ceremony was scheduled to take place during the 4th of July Parade held in Coronado, California.

And with John Finn being the Guest of Honor at the parade, a special pre-parade dinner was held at a very nice restaurant in Coronado the night before.

Among the invited guests were the sailor who was to receive the oath of reenlistment, Aviation Ordnanceman 3rd Class (AO3), Melissa Thorton, as well as her mother, who flew all the way from Florida to attend this special event.

As an aside, prior to the commencement of the dinner party, I brought “Metal of Honor” out the trailer and put her on display in front of the restaurant for the guests and the public to see. And as expected, much of my time during the dinner party was spent chatting with people who asked to take pictures of the bike, as well as having wonderful conversations about the project as a whole.

During the dinner party, Melissa rose to her feet and expressed her deep appreciation for the honor of being selected to have the most-revered Ordnanceman in Naval history, John Finn, administer the oath; and I think there wasn’t one person in attendance who wasn’t deeply moved by Melissa’s words... as she stated: "We're not among heroes, we're among angels."As the party was relaxing after a fine evening meal, Melissa took the time to step outside so as to take a few pictures of the bike to show her fellow Ordnancemen aboard the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz.
And I have to believe by the shear number of photos Melissa took of the bike that she found it pretty special... what with the Aviation Ordnance community's favorite hero engraved on the tank.

Melissa even got on the phone to tell her friends about the bike as well as how excited she was to be eating dinner with the hero of the Aviation Ordnance world, John Finn.
The following day, Independence Day 2009, brought with it spectacular blue skies and parade fans 12-deep on both sides of the nearly 2 mile long parade route.

And with fellow Aviation Ordnancemen marching in escort of the classic GTO convertible carrying the oldest living Medal of Honor Recipient, Melissa and her mother waited with great anticipation of the arrival of John at the reviewing stand.
With a spotless inspection-ready dress white uniform, AO3 Thorton stood at attention, and with right hand raised, took the oath of reenlistment from the Medal of Honor who her fellow Ordnancemen hold as their greatest example of Naval service.
And what a wonderful gift to remember this special event by, that of a beautifully framed picture of John Finn, along with a copy of his Medal of Honor Citation, and adorned with three separate Medal of Honor challenge coins, another of the Purple Heart, and an Ordnanceman coin; something any AO would be extremely proud to have on their wall.

All who had the chance to meet and chat with Melissa over this two day period who I subsequently spoke with mentioned that Melissa not only beamed with excitement over these events, but displayed that special spark of energy that only a true sense of the love of duty can bring forth. In short, Melissa made us all feel our own renewed sense of duty to this country.

And that wonderful feeling Melissa left us with is why we all were so incredibly shocked and saddened to hear the news that Melissa was tragically killed in a motorcycle accident only two weeks after the 4th of July.

My prayers for her mother Judi and family have been constant, and in some small way, I hope the photographs taken of this very special sailor will inspire others to find their own love of duty for this country.

Non sibi sed patriae

(Not self but country)

Visiting Nellis AFB Officer's Club

2009-07-14T15:44:00.000-07:00

We had a great visit today with the Las Vegas PHSA Chapter out at Nellis AFB Officer's Club. The Survivors were very moved to see the bike and thrilled to see themselves on Metal's trailer. Quite a few of the officers and airmen going in to lunch stopped to check out the bike as well.

Pearl Harbor Survivor Jack Gold (93, oldest member of Las Vegas PHSA) stands proudly with Metal of Honor at the Nellis Officer Club. The Harley Davidson Cross Bones is owned by Dana Harbaugh, Las Vegas author and Navy Veteran. He created the bike with help from several local artisans to honor all those involved in the attack on Pearl Harbor.

Dana shows LV PHSA Chapter President Ed Hall, the detailed engravings that adorn Metal of Honor. The bike features over 100 images telling the story of the attack.

Nearing 90 years old, Las Vegas Survivor Clifton Dohrmann climbed right up on Metal of Honor for a picture. He was just delighted to see the bike and his picture on the front of the trailer. Once up on the bike, he gave Metal a good look over. He seemed very touched by the tribute to him and those he served with at Pearl Harbor.

Just as we were getting ready to put Metal away, Dana snapped this picture of a flyover by the world famous Thunderbirds. I am sure they had no idea we were there - just a lucky coincidence, but it made a great shot!

Many thanks to Cate Berry for making sure security let us in the gate :)

A nice thank you from the kids

2009-07-14T12:53:00.001-07:00

A while back Dana took Metal of Honor over to a local school. He just recently received the sweetest Thank You card from the teacher and her kids.

Dream the impossible dream

2009-07-12T14:10:00.000-07:00

The USS Arizona Memorial in Pearl Harbor is under going a huge renovation in preparation for it's grand reopening in December of 2010. Dana really wants to take Metal of Honor, the truck and the trailer over for the ceremony, but I can't even fathom how much that would cost! So he says to me.. "Hey I bet some high muckety-muck General could make this happen." I started laughing , but then I remember one of my guiding rules in life.. " if you don't ask, they can't say yes!"

So I'm asking. Anyone have any bright ideas on how to get the truck, trailer, and bike to Hawaii for the ceremony ... without it eating up the printing budget for the book, I mean.

Ok, back to the real world now.

Video of Metal and all the engravings

2009-07-09T08:38:00.000-07:00

David Melchior kindly sent this video over of Dana showing some guests at gathering held Joe & Lil Larkin's house all the engravings on Metal of Honor.

At the Joe Larkin's in San Diego, Dana Harbaugh goes over features of his customized 2009 Harley Davidson that is dedicated to Pearl Harbor survivors. He is explaining to Medal of Honor recipients SP4 John Baca, USA and Colonel Bob Modrzejewski, USMC. Also pictured is retired Marine Captain Joe Larkin. Metal of Honor is a play on words by Dana. His website is: http://www.pearlsofhonor.com. Dana served in the US Navy.

More honor for John's 100th

2009-07-09T08:13:00.000-07:00

I guess you could say Dana's friend John Finn is a "rock star." The US Navy certainly thinks so, especially all the ordnancemen. Here's a story from DVIDS about a flag that has been traveling the world over to be flown in honor of John's 100th birthday. Second story. Third story

"We all gathered together during flight operations today to honor a man that we respect very highly," said Clift. "Aviation ordnancemen look up to this man for his accomplishments and for his leadership within his rate and his community." The flag that was raised on Eisenhower yesterday has already been flown at sea aboard USS George Washington, USS John C. Stennis and USS Ronald Reagan. It will continue making its way from one destination to the next until it is finally presented to Finn on his 100th birthday, July 23.

A photo Dana took of John at one of his MANY 100th birthday parties.
This image and two others Dana took of John's Medal of Honor were enlarged to adorn the car John and his longtime caretaker Francis rode in during the Coronado 4th of July Parade.

The Congressional Medal of Honor - Portraits of Valor - John Finn Story - watch more videos

Did I mention John got to meet another President this spring?

A few more 4th of July pics...

2009-07-09T07:56:00.000-07:00

I presume many have never seen a "Medal of Honor" flag carried in a parade... but since John W. Finn was the guest of honor at this year's 4th of July Parade in Coronado, California... his banner was seen by thousands that day. And of course, the Medal of Honor Recipient John Finn, seated in the back of this beautiful GTO, had Navy Aviation Ordnanceman marching alongside his vehicle.

Nothing could have topped off this wonderful 4th of July day more than the incredible honor I received when two other Medal of Honor Recipients, John P. Baca (left) and Mr. Robert J. Modrzejewski (right) (click on their link to read their MOH Citations) took the time to do their own inspection of the Remember Pearl Harbor Tribute Motorcycle during a neighborly backyard picnic.

Their complements on this project were incredibly moving to this Navy veteran...

Words from these great men can only help to inspire.

It's Military Monday on twitter

2009-07-06T11:43:00.000-07:00

If you're on twitter and love our troops, please support #Militarymon or #militarymonday by tweeting out a thank you to someone you know who's served or a cause that helps our fighting folks. Just add the hashtag #militarymon or #militarymonday to your tweet.

Curious how some of our troops spend the 4th of July? More pics and story at Gazing at the Flag blog.

Thank a solider or veteran this 4th of July

2009-07-03T17:57:00.000-07:00

While you and your family celebrate freedom and independence this weekend, take a few minutes to pay honor to those who have fought and continue to fight for our freedom. Remind your children that freedom has a price and this day is not just for fireworks and pool parties.

Couple of pics from the photo shoot

2009-07-01T22:15:00.001-07:00

I've been retouching pictures for the past couple of days. Our photographer did a great job, but Metal is a giant mirror with all that chrome. There were a lot of reflections that had to be removed or disguised. Here are just a few of the final pics.

We had to put Metal of Honor in the Condor Pit Stop Chok for the pics on the grass. Dana just didn't trust the kick stand on the soft, just watered lawn by the lake. This chok is awesome. Only weighs 22 pounds and Metal stays very stable, even when bumped, on ANY surface. Sometimes you have to make trade offs, especially when you're shooting something that would be so hard to repair if damaged. As a designer, I really appreciate clever, elegant and simple to use design. We were so impressed when we saw them at the Laughlin bike rally earlier this year. Dana bought one for Metal like two weeks later. You just can't beat good old American-made ingenuity!

Detail of the gas tank with John Finn's signature.

I love the angle Nate got on the pipes.

Finally, some nice pics of Dana with the bike. I voted for the smile one, but he likes this "Mr. Serious Harley Rider" one. I'll win this debate yet, I swear!

The V for Victory seal on the front fender.

The Navy loves our friend John

2009-07-01T14:09:00.000-07:00

The Navy sailors aboard the aircraft carrier U.S.S. John C. Stennis took a little time to acknowledge Mr. Finn's 100th birthday with this display. John is very well loved throughout the Navy.

John's 100th birthday party, which Dana attended with Metal of Honor, has also generated some press article 2 article 3

Send some love to a solider

2009-06-29T16:59:00.000-07:00

We just ran across this great charity where you can send a care package to a deployed solider that is tailored to that solider's particular needs. Check out Herobox.org.

Metal Makers

2009-06-27T10:22:00.000-07:00

Right before he left for California yesterday, Dana took Metal of Honor over to visit with the crew at Chrome Fusion who did all the engraving, detail line painting and managed Metal's transformation from stock Harley to rolling history lesson.

Sandy and Jason did all the hand engraving, while Joyce (with some "supervision" from Harley the dog) did all the line painting and managed the movement of all of Metal's parts from their shop to the paint shop and over to the cycle shop for eventual reassembly. Their work on the bike is nothing short of astonishing.

From left to right: Pearls of Honor author Dana Harbaugh, Jason Steiner, Joyce Steiner and Sandy Steiner of Chrome Fusion Custom Engraving.

Dana just called from John Finn's 100th birthday BBQ. being held about 10 miles from his ranch house in the high desert. It was supposed to be a "small affair" with just 20 people or so. It is, in fact, a huge soiree with over 4,000 in attendance! Metal of Honor is parked on the stage near where John is seated. Dana says she is drawing a LOT of attention. I should have pics to post later today.

Smile for the camera!

2009-06-24T11:24:00.000-07:00

Metal of Honor got her day in the sun yesterday as the very talented Nate from Black Diamond Digital took over 400 photos of every angle of her gorgeous curves to document the engravings and for publicity use.

Nate Ludens of Black Diamond Digital shooting Metal of Honor

The first ones out of the gate will most likely go to Hot Bike Magazine as they have requested a cover story feature on Metal on Honor.

We shot up at Desert Shores on a corner that put the lake in the background. Our unseasonable cool weather has bid us ado and it was a sweaty 90 degrees plus, even at 8am. Metal and the trailer drew quite a few onlookers among the dog walkers and joggers. Lots of people stopped to check her out and ask about the project.

Shooting something that is highly reflective is quite a challenge and we really put Nate through his paces. Here's the blooper reel...

Everyone wave to Nate, reflected in long leg funhouse glory inside Metal's horn cover.

... and here you can see me holding the light reflector with Dana behind me reflected in John Finn's image on the gas tank and there's Nate again down in the horn cover.

Of course, for all this Nate got some amazing shots. Dana and I are still sorting through them. You can see a few more over at Nate's blog.

2009-06-22T06:51:00.001-07:00

Here's a "before and after" look at how much the 2009 Harley Davidson Crossbones has changed in the last eight months.

Photos taken at Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area

Pipe Dreams (Cont)...

2009-06-16T16:25:00.001-07:00

Here's a few shots of the finished pipes. (large resolution photos.... click on photo to see close-up)

I'm in awe of ChromeFusion's work.... absolutely SPECTACULAR!

Pipe dreams...

2009-06-16T16:13:00.000-07:00

Okay,

Even though "Metal" has been seen by hundreds of people over the past couple of weeks, she had to go back into the shop at ChromeFusion to have a few last-minute items finished.

Of those items to finish was that of having the Vance & Hines Big-Shot 2-into-2 exhaust pipes powder-coated a flat black color.

I had quite a few people say that the pipes looked great as they were... all chrome, as you may be able to see in the above photo, it's kind of hard to read the words engraved on the pipes.

Unexpected heroine

2009-06-06T22:29:00.000-07:00

Today is the 65th Anniversary of D-day, the allied landing on the beach at Normandy, France that was the beginning of the end for the Nazi's iron grip over Europe and in fact, the whole of WWII. Much was done and said to mark the anniversary by world leaders and the public alike.

Especially striking in NPR's coverage was the story of an American woman living in Paris during the war who helped smuggle 60 downed aviators out of Nazi-occupied France. It almost cost her life in a Nazi death camp, but she always told her son that these continued acts of heroism were simply her duty as an American.

"All Things Considered, June 6, 2009 · As President Obama commemorates the sacrifices made by American troops on the D-Day beaches, supporters of another American hero who helped to liberate France are calling for her role to be recognized. Virginia D'Albert Lake stayed on in France during the German occupation, joined the resistance and helped to rescue more than 60 Allied airmen."

Here's to you, Virginia and to all those who, although not wearing the uniform, still choose to serve.

Metal goes to school

2009-06-05T17:51:00.000-07:00

A good friend of mine, Debbie Reiter, mother of Mountain View Lutheran School 4th Grader Bobby Reiter, asked me to bring Metal of Honor over to the school on Monday, June 1st. The 4th and 5th grade class was full of questions about the bike, the attack and World War II. One young man was certain that one of the Survivors pictured on Metal's trailer looked exactly like his grandfather.

As my schedule allows,I hope that I can bring Metal to more schools so kids of all ages can experience this rolling history lesson and maybe have more appreciation for the veterans in their own families. You can request an appearance at your school or event.

Speaking of events, I have plans to ride Metal of Honor for the last leg of The Honor Run from San Marcos, CA to Oakley Sunglasses Headquarters in Foothill Ranch, CA for the big finale party. On the way there, the riders will be greeted by 1,000 American flags being flown along I-5 near Camp Pendleton. Dave Barr (the organizer of the Honor Run), and the 10,000 other riders expected to join him during the run, are raising money to care for our wounded veteran's needs.

I had heard about the run and was anxious to bring Metal up to Mesquite, where they will overnight on day 7 of the 9-day run. Then I saw the note on the ad that no more vendors were being accepted. Eariler this week, out of the blue, I got a call from one of the organizers who had heard about the bike through John Finn's people inviting me to join the run in Mesquite and appear with John at the finale party (if John's health allows). I am thrilled to be part of such a worthwhile cause. Watch the blog for more info as the date gets closer.

Stu goes for a spin

2009-06-05T17:15:00.000-07:00

During my recent visit to the San Diego Veteran's Museum and Memorial at the old Navy Chapel at Balboa Park, Survivor from the USS West Virginia, Stu Hedly had his first look at Metal of Honor. I turned my back for one minute and there he was, grinning for all he was worth, ready to take Metal for a spin.

Stu (who appears in many times in Pearls of Honor) was the San Diego Pearl Harbor Survivor Association Carnation Chapter 3 Chaplin for many years. He was recently elected chapter President. Stu regularly visits elementary schools throughout San Diego to share the story of the attack with school children. He is also present at many events, dedications and memorials throughout the year.

Metal of Honor write up in San Diego Union-Tribune

2009-05-31T15:11:00.000-07:00

Columnist Diane Bell whose column appears Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays in the San Diego Union-Tribune did a short feature on Metal of Honor's meeting with World War II Hero John Finn on 5-23-09. The story appears on page B5.

A rolling tribute

Yesterday, WWII Medal of Honor recipient John Finn saw a different kind of “metal of honor.” This one, a Harley-Davidson motorcycle hand-engraved with WWII images, is the work of Desert Storm veteran, Dana Harbaugh, 47, a Las Vegas photographer who is preparing a photo book about Pearl Harbor survivors.

Harbaugh customized the motorcycle, calling it the “Remember Pearl Harbor Tribute Motorcycle,” to remind youth of sacrifices made by our military.

He took the newly completed bike yesterday to Finn's Campo home to show him its engravings, which include Finn's image. “I wanted to get his approval,” the author said.

He got it. Finn autographed the bike, which will be at the Veterans Memorial Museum in Balboa Park from 10 to 2 p.m. today and Sunday. It also will be at the Mount Soledad Veterans Memorial service on Monday.

American Chopper has nothing on these guys!

2009-05-31T13:41:00.000-07:00

Here's Master Builder Raymond Fischer of Attitude Custom Cycles working late into the night on the Monday before my trip to Mt. Soledad to get Metal of Honor reassembled for her big debut. Raymond got the entire family involved in the build. His wife and son (shown below) assisted in the 14 hour marathon build project. They finally got the bike assembled at 11pm. The shop over at Arlen Ness Las Vegas is a hub of activity with 3-4 bikes in various stages of assembly at any given time.

World War II Hero John Finn Meets Metal of Honor

2009-05-27T21:14:00.000-07:00

Over the Memorial Day weekend, World War II Medal of Honor recipient, John Finn was able to get a good look at Metal of Honor, the customized Harley Davidson Crossbones he helped inspire. Metal of Honor bears John's image from 1941 as well as engravings of his Medal of Honor (both front and back) along with numerous other images from that day that will live in infamy.

As a final seal of approval, John signed the tank next to his picture. Upon the bike's return to Las Vegas, the marker signature will be painted over with a special paint and clear coated again by Dwight Purcellz of Purcellz Customz.

John, who has always loved motorcycles, was so excited to finally see the bike after many months of hearing about it. He seemed pretty tickled to see himself on the trailer, as well. He is pictured twice, once at a meeting with former President Bush and again with his caretaker Francis at the USS Arizona Memorial in Oahu during the Survivors 65th Anniversary visit to the island.

Author Dana Harbaugh, owner of Metal of Honor, pulled together an amazing team of artisans to make his vision of a "rolling history lesson" into reality.

Bike Dissassembly and Reassembly by the Raymond Fisher in the Attitude Custom Cycle shop at Arlen Ness Las Vegas
Hand Engraving by Sandy & Jason at Chrome Fusion
Hand Painting the engraved areas by Sandy's wife, Joyce.
Hand tooled leather seat by Shirley of Bad Ass Seats
Painting by Dwight of Purcellz Customz
Trailer Wrap design by Krystal of Spark Creative
Trailer wrap printing & install by Mark and his team at Color Reflections
Flower Lei and Pearl art by Lori Anzalone

The bike will serve to hopefully draw people into the story of the Survivors of the attack on Pearl Harbor as told in Dana's upcoming book: Pearls of Honor: Their Duty to Remember.

Metal of Honor at the USS Midway

2009-05-21T21:55:00.000-07:00

Dana is on the road in San Diego for Memorial Day weekend. He sent back these very first pictures of the finished Metal of Honor Pearl Harbor Tribute Harley taken near the USS Midway Carrier in San Diego Harbor.

The USS Midway is the longest-serving Navy aircraft carrier of the 20th century. The floating "city at sea" is permanetly docked in San Diego Harbor and is open daily for tours of the carrier.

The entire city of San Diego has special meaning for Dana, as it is where he first met Ben Boosinger and the other Survivors. They hold their monthly meetings at the Veteran's Museum and Memorial in Balboa Park. Dana met them all when he volunteered to teach a basic computer class for veterans. During the course of the class "Uncle" Ben told Dana he was now an honorary member of the San Diego Carnation Chapter of the Pearl Harbor Survivors Association. Would you tell an 85 year old war hero "no"? Attending the meetings brought Dana into their world of service and duty. Being a Navy veteran himself, this began a long friendship with Ben and all of the other survivors that morphed into a life mission — documented in over 20,000 photographs. Some of these will be shared in Dana's upcoming book, Pearls of Honor: Their Duty to Remember.

If you are in San Diego, Dana, the trailer and Metal of Honor will be at the Memorial Services at Mt. Soledad on Monday. Look for him in the lower parking lot. He says the media typically attends this event in force and he is excited to possibly get some news coverage. More importantly, however, he is chomping at the bit to show the bike to John Finn tomorrow and put the last piece in place, John's signature on the gas tank next to his picture and his Medal of Honor. Once Dana comes back to Vegas, the signature will be clear coated by Dwight at Purcellz Customz.

WOW!

2009-05-19T21:47:00.001-07:00

Mark and his team at Color Reflections ASTONISHED us and outdid themselves by many magnitudes. The wrap is stunning and the clarity on individual pictures! You can read the text at the base of the statue and on the magazine article in one of the pictures.

They printed this wrap on their new HP inkjet large format printer and I've never seen the like for resolution and color fidelity. It's the first install of this machine in North America. The printer uses a Latex ink that doesn't release any nasty fumes and has no harsh chemicals. It's water based and probably the MOST environmentally friendly large format printer on the market.

Metal's Trailer is almost ready to roll!

2009-05-18T20:24:00.001-07:00

Today post is from Krystal, the Marketing Director and Designer for Pearls of Honor and Deontos Publishing.

Now that Dana is out of the hospital, I can't keep the man still! He had a heart attack last week and here he is today over at Color Reflections chivving Mark's crew along and taking pictures of them installing the trailer wrap I designed for Metal's home on the road. It's coming along wonderfully and we should have pics of the final wrap tomorrow. Dana, the trailer and hopefully the completed Metal of Honor Tribute Harley should be in San Diego at Mt. Soledad for the Memorial Day services. His brother is flying in to drive with him as I made THREATS.. serious threats should he decide to drive alone. He also went over to Arlen Ness and Chrome Fusion today as well to make sure that part of things is on scedule. No rest for the almost dead, I guess.

Can I take away his caffeine, yet?

BIG NEWS!

2009-05-18T20:20:00.001-07:00

My newly revamped website is live. Thanks to Krystal over at Spark Creative, Lori from Anzalone Illustration and Mike and Maverick at SinCityMadMen! We're still working out some of the kinks and updating little things, but I'm pretty happy so far.

Pearls of Honor website goes live

2009-05-14T21:38:00.000-07:00

Our new website for Pearls of Honor has just gone live. Still a little fine tuning to do. Wander on over and tell us what you think.

Metal's paint and chrome is shaping up!

2009-05-12T23:15:00.001-07:00

After months of waiting and watching, my 2008 Harley Davidson Crossbones massive customization project is almost done! Metal of Honor: The Pearl Harbor Tribute Bike should be complete early next week in time for my trip to San Diego to attend the Memorial day services at Mt. Soledad. I will also meet with my dear friend John Finn, the oldest living Medal of Honor recipient from World War II, so that he can inspect the finished bike and add the last touch, his signature on the gas tank. John will be turning 100 this year and his sea stories are fascinating to listen to. One cannot help but admire his zest for life and seemingly endless energy. The plan is for me to ride Metal of Honor as part of his escort this summer in the Coronado, California 4th of July Parade. John has been asked to be the Grand Marshal.

Here are some pictures from the paint shop at Purcellz Cuztomz, Arlen Ness (bike assembly) and Chrome Fusion (hand engraving) of the bike in progress.

Metal's gas tank with the hand engraving done by Sandy at Chrome Fusion hung for painting at Purcellz Cuztomz.

Dwight Purcellz doing some sanding prior to applying the pearl coat.

The front of the gas tank has a 1940's era Harley Davidson logo and
Hula girls framing a picture of John Finn.

One of the medals awarded for heroism during the attack.

With John's permission, Sandy at Chrome Fusion engraved not only his picture but his actual Medal of Honor, both front and back onto the tank.

The rear fender has a depiction of the Hawaiian islands and a list of all the ships that were damaged in the attack. All ships were repaired and went on to serve during World War II, except the USS Arizona, which was sunk by torpedos. The ship is still listed as "active" in the Navy as it silently stands vigil for the many man entombed in her at the bottom of Pearl Harbor.

The Pearl White paint has a sheen that is very iridescent in the sunlight. The tank will now return to Chrome Fusion where Joyce will be doing some color work on the engraving, then come back to Purcellz for the final clear coat. Then it goes over to Arlen Ness to be reassembled.

On the other side of the tank, the USS Arizona is shown sailing, listing before she sank on December 7th, 1941 and in her current form as a Memorial and tomb of some service men killed that day.

The seat is done!

2009-05-10T22:06:00.000-07:00

Metal of Honor's custom leather seat just came back from Shirley at BadAss Seats. She also did David Letterman's custom seat, among many others.

Survivors in the news, Chicago

2009-05-08T15:31:00.000-07:00

Some World War II Navy veterans in the Chicago area were treated to a tour of the Great Lakes naval training facility this week. They were all survivors of Pearl Harbor. See the video and read the story.

Laughlin River Run

2009-04-26T09:25:00.000-07:00

We took a trip this weekend down to the Laughlin River Run to check out all the other Harleys and bikes and see what kind of display we want for the finished Metal of Honor Harley. Visited with the folks at Chrome Fusion to get an update on our Harley and met the guys from Condor Motorcycle Products.

Condor's Pitstop Chock product is pretty awesome. I've been trying to figure out how we can keep Metal of Honor stable when it's on display in crowded environments. The last thing we need if for it to get tipped and damage Sandy's hard work (example of his hand engraving at left). We saw this great stand being used in several booths and were on the look out for the makers. I just about bought two on the spot, until Krystal (Deontos' Marketing Director) started to talk to the guy about a possible sponsorship deal.

This little 22 pound device will keep up to a 3,000 pound bike stable parked on any surface and easily adapts to be used as a trailer chock as well. Even a serious effort to push it over won't do anything other than rock the bike. (We pushed HARD.) Just a simple push down on the handle bars will release the bike from the chock and you can ride off in 2 minutes. Genius!

So we'll see how the sponsorship deal works out. Metal is at the paint shop now and I am so antsy to see the finished bike. I also can't wait to see the finished custom seat I ordered.