Stratis J. Maloukis Jr.

Do not stand by my grave and weep,
For I am not there.
I do not sleep.
I am a thousand winds that blow,
I am the diamond’s glint on snow,
I am the sunlight on ripened grain,
I am the gentle autumn’s rain.
In the soft hush of the morning light
I am the swift bird in flight.
Do not stand by my grave and cry,
I am not there,
I did not die.

---unknown native American---

Although we didn't reconnect until I was in my late 20's, Dad was a kind and loving father and welcomed me and all of my children into his home with open arms. I can't express in words how much he inspired me and how much I looked up to him. He was my Dad. He was, and will always be, my hero. I will miss him dearly.

In his final letter to the Scouts, Baden-Powell wrote:

...I have had a most happy life and I want each one of you to have a happy life too. I believe that God put us in this jolly world to be happy and enjoy life. Happiness does not come from being rich, nor merely being successful in your career, nor by self-indulgence. One step towards happiness is to make yourself healthy and strong while you are a boy, so that you can be useful and so you can enjoy life when you are a man....

Heaven’s Gunner
by Tim Maloukis

The clouds aren’t as white, the sky not as blue
Your brother warriors of this they all knew
You traveled miles, destinations often unknown
We were all joyous when once again you arrived home.

Your travels took you high through the grey and the blue
Until today when the heavens opened and took you through
The clouds won’t be as white, the sky not as blue
Until in the future all your loved ones will once again
Fly with...