Dear Reader, John Fortier is a 77 year old Korean War veteran who has been hosting weekly peace vigils in Redondo Beach (Los Angeles area) since just before President Bush launched the invasion of Iraq in March, 2003.
Poor Brass Monkey. . . had his balls frozen off ! That's a quaint, crude, folksy way of saying it was a cold vigil tonight.
Traffic was light and acknowledgement fair. Pedestrians, almost all gave some sign or words of support. I think sharing the cold inspired some sympathy reactions, whereas car occupants, in their artificial warmth and comfort, didn't appreciate what being outside in the chill was really like.
The cart lady came by and visited for 15 or 20 minutes. She never fails to impress me with her conversational range and depth. This evening it was about insect control; fleas on pets, ants and flies; garlic as flea deterrent; bus bench glass/plastic siding; price switching at the local drug store; etc.. When Grant arrived, I sort of eased the cart lady along on her Flying Dutchman way so Grant and I could have a little visit. She has very nice manners and responds nicely to subtle hints.
Even before the cart lady though, Ron Kovic came by and we had a chat. I had seen him at Albertson's Wednesday evening but didn't say anything because Michele and I were rushing. A couple of summers ago we had some lengthy talks about our common experience - war, he in Viet Nam and I in Korea. He bought me a couple of Penguins during the summer. He didn't mention them tonight. I had seen the movie about him, Born on the 4th of July, which shows him protesting war at the end. And, as he said this evening, he has been protesting ever since. So I guess we have two things in common - war and protesting war. As he was speeding away on his ['tuned up' electric chair ?] he said he and his girl friend admire my vigils. His feelings on the matter have a little special significance, considering his history, but all support is appreciated.
Cold as it was, it was still a good night on the corner.
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