Tribute to Tom Henderson and Jerome Pliickebaum

One of the lawyers in my office is Tom Henderson.

When not serving as an Administrative Law Judge for the State of Kansas, Tom's 35-year private practice has included serving hundreds of disabled US Veterans at the Topeka VA Hospital.  Going beyond his duties as their Court-appointed Conservator, Tom has also served as their big brother, their baby sitter, and in some cases their best -- or only -- friend.  While Tom receives minimal compensation, it is essentially a volunteer job.  As each veteran ages, Tom is there to help.  In many cases, Tom becomes their family.  In some cases, Tom is the only one who attends their military funeral.

5 years ago today, Navy veteran Jerome "Plicky" Pliickebaum died in his sleep.  No, I didn't know him, but Tom provided me with some information about Plicky.
(click below to enlarge)

Tom was Plicky's family and the only one who attended his funeral.  In the 5 years since his death, nobody has claimed the US flag that covered his casket.

 In his honor, and with Tom's blessing, today Dad and I flew Jerome Pliickebaum's flag.

Thank you, Plicky for your service to our country.  Thank you, Tom for your tireless dedication to our US Veterans.
You are an unsung hero.

Oh yes ... on this day, the 5 year anniversary of Plicky's death and my 61st birthday, I was lucky enough to spend it with loving family.  

Not everybody is so lucky.