The inscription on the white granite Tennessee headstone read simply: Ronald T. Bozza, Sgt. US Air Force, Vietnam. There seemed to be a special glow as we visited the burial place of our friend Ron.

Some three years ago we received a phone call from Barbara, Ron’s wife, telling us he passed away. Circumstances at the time would not permit us to attend his funeral. I suppose you might say that I had my own attendance as I stood there gazing upon his grave. Ron was a pure-blooded American and had requested that his burial be in the National Cemetery in Tennessee.

Let me tell you a little bit about this special fellow. We met him as a young airman stationed at Charleston Air Force Base, a friend of our former son-in-law. He seemed to enjoy mine and Billie’s company so much. It was during one of those special visits that we learned his mother had passed away when he was 9 years old. A terrible void seemed to hover over us as we spent an afternoon just talking. It was during one of these friendly discourses that we learned Ron would like to call us “Mom” and “Dad.” We were flattered and told him we would be honored. Thus began a friendship lasting until his untimely death.

After the war, Ron spent part of his honeymoon with us, where he introduced us to Barbara, his bride. We have been friends with Barbara ever since – 40 years. Over the years we have visited in each other’s homes many times. I will always treasure the memories of the times our two families have enjoyed with each other. As we departed the cemetery, we agreed the rest of our four days would be spent the way Ron would want us to – having fun.

I have told you in the past that I was country before country was ever born. Although Billie and I have visited Nashville many times, we still like to do the nostalgic sightseeing. One of our highlights this time was a guided tour of the recently renovated Ryman Auditorium. For the first time, we walked across the stage and had our picture taken. We were stars for a few moments.

The brand new Country Music Hall of Fame took us back in time. Next we had a trolley tour of the Nashville Skyline. After a Hard Rock Cafe lunch, the girls began to visit the many shops. Our seating time for the Grand Old Opry was 6:30 p.m. The show was outstanding. The headliner, Opry star Lorie Morgan, gave a special welcome to Billie on her 83rd birthday.

Our short vacation would not have been possible if our daughters, Cheryl and Carol (Tootie), had not taken us, doing all the driving. They thoroughly enjoyed the trip and the sights including the Bluebird Cafe, one of Nashville’s night spots. Barbara made all the plans and stuck with us all the time although she is plagued with some physical problems.

She really rolled out the red carpet for us. Thank you, Barbara.

Lest we forget ...

T&D Columnist Rinehart Chewning is a longtime resident of Holly Hill.

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