The Chetboard

I needed a special offertory number that was appropriate for the church service this morning in which we gave thanks for our military veterans. Remembering Chet's recording from several years ago featuring the tunes from
the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marines, my sons and I put together a similar arrangement---not as good as Chet played them, of course, but not from a lack of trying. Chet's recording of that medley was super; I wish that it would be used on radio/television broadcasts during Memorial Day, Independence Day, etc.

I am glad to see you are honering our men and women of the Armed Forces ... however as a retired U.S. Coast Guard Captain I would be remiss if I didn't remind all that their are five branches of the Armed Forces ... Army, Navy, Marines. Air Force and U.S. Coast Guard. SEMPER PARATUS

Yesterday I attended a Veterans' Memorial Day ceremony here in Battle Creek at the Ft. Custer National Cemetery because my stepson was part of the color guard. It's the first time I ever heard the Coast Guard anthem played after
the anthems for the other 4 branches of the service.

Rande ... I am glad you noticed and thanks to your stepson for participating in honoring the men and women of the Armed Forces. It is interesting to find most people amazed when told the USCG is "military." However, I am a Vietnam vet with the USCG and my son is currently serving his 2nd tour in the Middle East with the USCGC ADAk. The confusion is caused by the fact the USCG is not under the Department of Defense but under the Department of Homeland Security. This is because of their law enforcement responsibilities which they have as well as their military duties.

By the way Chet's military tribute was awesome but would expect no less from the master.

Hi Phil,

You must be about my age then. As opposed to being a Viet Nam Vet, I'm a "Viet Nam Era Vet", since I spent my entire time from '69 to "71 at Ft. Benning, GA.

My stepson had a couple of rough teenage years and qualified to be in the "Michigan Youth Challenge Academy", which is a program for "at risk" youth (both guys and girls) from 16 to 18. He was one of 96 or so accepted out of 700+ applicants but they really make you "jump through hoops" to be accepted. Of course the parents do most of the jumping and prodding. He graduates in 2 weeks and we're hoping the best for his transition, but am a little worried after this past weekend. He lost all of his drive, being back home. He wants to join the Air Force but won't be 18 until next Spring.

Sorry to get carried away on that, but I wanted to say that I really respect your guitar playing. I remember that Paul Yandell said good things about you also. Not to be "blasphemous" but I believe that you could do nearly as good a job as Chet did because it wasn't one of his most difficult anyway and I think you could handle it. I know that I intend to soon myself.

I know you'll keep it up! Take Care

Thank you Rande for the nice comments ... anything coming from Paul would be considered a compliment not to be taken lightly. Paul was in a league all his own.

I would like to bring to your attention the thousands of men in the United States Merchant Marines who served war-time duty during the Second World War. My father tried to get into the Army but they wouldn't take him; he was married and had 2 children. Secondarily he was a Tool and Die Maker, and was considered to be necessary to the war effort. When he went to the Navy, they suggested volunteering for the Merchant Marine. At the end of the war he was offered a commission in the Navy. That's where my brother and myself served.

God Bless the USA.

I know this post has gotten a little off the subject of Chet's great playing but since it is Memorial Day we can grant a little latitude. Larry D I think most people don't realize that although the Merchant Marine is not a branch of the Armed Forces it is considered a civilian auxiliary of the U.S. Navy, except in times of war when, in accordance with the Merchant Marine Act of 1936, mariners are considered military personnel. Also, in 1988 President Ronald Reagan signed a bill into law granting veteran status to merchant mariners who served in WWII. Prior to such legislation, they did not receive veteran's benefits. As such they deserve the same debt of gratitude from this nation as all veterens.

OK I am done with military history (lol) ... back to the "pickin and grinnin."

Phil: Quite right. The first tune I learned to play fingerstyle was Beer Barrel Polka in 1955. I had an old beat up Martin, with the back coming off.

I saved my money and in 1956 I bought a big blond Kay arch top cutaway. It really booms ! I haven't gotten to electrics yet.

Still saving money !

Didn't mean to leave anyone out. We just don't have church members attending our rural church from branches other than the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marines. If we did, I'd sure try to get those other tunes into the medley. I appreciate all who have served and are presently serving our nation.