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Fourth of July takes on a different meaning for me
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Fourth of July takes on a different meaning for me


Jul 4, 2013, 11:27 AM

And my family.

On July 4th, 2012, exactly one year ago today, I lost my grandfather, affectionately known a "Papa".

He was a Clemson man. He was recruited to play football by both SCAR and Clemson. However, his dad thought that SCAR "wanted to give too many gifts". He had offers from many colleges, but his dad thought the Clemson coaches were the most down to Earth recruiters they'd ever met; and thus, he went to Clemson.

He played for two seasons under Howard, including in the 1959 Sugar Bowl against LSU.

However, family responsibilities required him to retire from college football. Even though he was no longer playing, Howard let him keep his football scholarship.

He went to just about every football game throughout the years, until his knee started giving him trouble. After multiple surgeries, doctors decided it was best to amputate his leg. Of course, he did what any Clemson man would do after a surgery like that, and got himself a Clemson leg. http://imgur.com/zVNTrR4

He also loved his country and his state. He often gave money to the Wounded Warriors project throughout his life. He also served in the U.S. Army and National Guard Reserves, and served in the SC House of Representatives from 1980-1988.

A funny story: He was tired of all the official state whatevers (dance, drink, etc.) so when some school kids proposed the praying mantis for state insect he amended the bill to include the palmetto bug as state bug so it would have to go back to committee. The News and Courier ran this cartoon.

His death impacted many people. Shortly after, the SC House of Representatives passed a bill in his name, which was a great honor to him and our family.

Maybe it was fitting he passed on the fourth. Maybe it was fitting that he passed on the day that honors our country, considering how much he honored it in life.

He was a patriotic man. A Clemson man. But most of all, a family man. And I miss him more than I can describe.

R.I.P. Papa. December 17, 1938-July 4, 2012

And with that, have a happy Fourth. Drive safe, y'all.

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Re: Fourth of July takes on a different meaning for me


Jul 4, 2013, 11:45 AM

I'm with you. I lost my dad unexpectedly 5 years ago today. He was a huge tiger fan and I really miss him. My daughter also called him pa pa. My condolences to you, but at least they're in a much better place!

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Re: Fourth of July takes on a different meaning for me


Jul 4, 2013, 12:04 PM

What a life, truly incredible.

2024 orange level member flag link military_tech thumb_downthumb_up

Thanks so much for sharing that, it was a great read***


Jul 4, 2013, 12:15 PM



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"IDIOT POSTER OF THE MONTH SO FAR...GWP-- You have won IPM Award for your failure to completely comprehend a clear post & then choose to attack someone who points out your ignorance. While you are not yet in the same No Class Catagory as deRoberts, ClemTiger117 & Tigerdug23, you are getting closer to the Sewer Dwellers." - coachmac


Re: Fourth of July takes on a different meaning for me


Jul 4, 2013, 12:28 PM

great post.. THKS for sharing..

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A wonderful tribute from a Grandson of whom I am sure he


Jul 4, 2013, 12:30 PM

was very proud. Thanks for this post...it means a lot to me as a Grandfather.

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I can see why you're so proud of this man


Jul 4, 2013, 4:18 PM

He does us all proud. May God bless.

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Thank you guys for the support.***


Jul 5, 2013, 11:19 AM



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