I just wanted to file this report of sorts on the Pittman dedication held yesterday, July 1, 2006 at the Old Pittman Cemetery in Walthall County. The weather was bright and clear and although warmer than what we may be comfortable with nobody overheated.
The Moses Jackson Camp from Liberty was in charge of the services and I feel they pulled off a excellent service. Jim Huffman came and helped in a big way. He not only was one of the shooters in the Honor Guard he also spared everybody the misery of my playing and blew Taps for us. Thanks Jim, job well done, and it was great to meet you and have the chance to honor our heros together.
W.J. Roberts, Virgil Roberts and Matt Roberts were the other members of the Honor Guard. They did a super job. Matt Roberts drove all the way from Evangeline Parish Louisiana to help and was still grinning over how much enjoyed himself when we got home today. Virgil and W.J. Roberts did the lions share of getting this done from our end.
Ron Skellie was there and delivered a excellent history of the men's service and the 7th Mississippi. Ron drove all the way from Marietta (sic?), Georgia and his brother Billie Skellie from Long Beach also attended. Ron, you outdid yourself my friend. It was a real treat to finally meet you face to face.
The Pittman family treated us as if we were their own sons, couldn't ask to meet nicer or finer folks anywhere. The number of them who turned out tells me they hold their ancestors in high esteem. I finally got to meet George Purvis face to face also. George put his thanks into action and made a nice donation that will be used by the Moses Jackson Camp to help acquire headstones for some vets who are in need and whom the VA has not seen fit to cover.
Mitchell Sanders was there to help. Just seeing Mitch arrive always makes me feel good and his lovely wife also has some kind words of encouragement for everybody. I just hope she didn't empty Mitch's wallet on the shopping trip she had planned for yesterday afternoon.
Lastly, thanks to my son, Jake, age 11. I was surprised at the job he did taking pics for us. They came out better than mine do. He also helped set-up the flags and tables etc, and passed out programs, he even stomped out a small fire that started when the Honor Guard fired their first volley.
So, thanks to all, especially the Pittman family for allowing us to honor their ancestors. I want to say I hope the men themselves felt honored. It was their courage bravery and sacrifice we went to honor. Let us hope they approved. The gentle drops of rain that were falling as we drove off made me feel sure they were watching.