He was always “Corky” to me and I was always “Brad” to him! I have known him for over fifty years. We first met at Ft. Campbell, KY where we were both assigned to the G1 (Personnel) office. We bonded rather quickly and have remained good friends ever since. Corky, his brother Jimmy and I served in Vietnam during the 1967 - 1968 timeframe. Jimmy was KIA in Vietnam. Corky escorted his brothers remains home and was subsequently assigned to Ft. Campbell for the remainder of his active duty tour. I was a young Captain at the time and Corky was an enlisted person. The rule at the time was that officer and enlisted personnel were forbidden to fraternize! So naturally, Corky and I got an apartment off post and became roommates! Sound like anyone you know! One day Corky asked me if I’d like to attend a concert in Nashville. A friend of his had given him a couple of tickets. I agreed to go and we attended a great “Led Zeppelin” concert. A little different atmosphere for two ‘ol boys who grew up near the heart of country music, but we had a good time. I’ll never forget on the way back to Ft. Campbell that night having a rather lengthy discussion about the funky smell of something that was being smoked during the concert. Oh well, enough of the stories!
My thoughts and prayers are with Pam and all the family. Know that I’m always available if y’all ever need me! There is now a vacant chair at the Howard family table, but there is absolutely no doubt in my mind that there is a new voice in the heavenly choir. Maybe I should say, a new “hunk”! I love you brother!
RIP MY DEAR FRIEND AND SOLDIER IN ARMS
Brad
John D. Bradberry
COL, USA, Retired