Dan Jr., was born in Japan, while I was stationed there, and he always loved the fact that he had two citizenships.  He always seemed to smile, and the world smiled back at him. 

He loved all sports, but football became his favorite.  He had to put up with my singing the oldies, when he was younger, but his later years were devoted to country music.  His favorite singer was Garth Brooks, and "The Dance"  was one of his favorite songs. 

 

He loved to go with his grandparents, on their summer camping trips, and always gave a helping hand, when they needed it.  Sunday brunches with dad was also a tradition,  and even as he got older, we still managed to have them together.   He and his big sister were always close, unless they were fighting over their spot on the couch, with dad. 

Dan Jr., was a Trekkie, "Star Trek", and could tell you anything you wanted to know, about any of the charactors.  He wouldn't miss an episode of "Quantum Leap",  and a sword, from the "Highlander" series, still hangs on his bedroom wall.

 

Dan Jr., had his heart set on joining the Marines, but a broken arm, his Senior year in high school, made that impossible.  He spent some of his time with the local fire department, and helped with the community ball games.   Dan's young friend, Brian, joined the Marines, and is currently serving in Iraq.  Brian picked the Marines, because he knew that's what Dan wanted to do, and it was his way of showing, how close they will always be.