USNA 1973 Ride-2-Remember

Day 47, 19 September: LaPorte to Goshen, IN

Yesterday afternoon capped two days in a row of riding in the rain. After slogging in the rain all day, we got some good news as we were paid a visit by my cousin and godson, Joe McGuire. Joe was a little guy while we were at USNA and he always proudly wore Navy paraphernalia including our dixie cups on his many visits to the Yard. It was very special that he took the time from his busy schedule to visit and support us. Thanks, Joe.

Today the forecast was for rain in LaPorte, Indiana around 10AM but clear at our destination in Goshen, Indiana. The dark clouds remained above or just behind us as we motored towards the sunshine in order to maximize our chances of staying out of the rain.

We were successful in this endeavor. We also achieved another milestone. The team is now on our final time zone (Eastern). Our first clear day since entering Indiana let us more thoroughly enjoy the Hoosier State. Our ride today was mostly farmland. Mostly corn but other crops as well. The pumpkin stand sent a clear message that Autumn is close at hand. We could not resist stopping to see the crop dusters all parked in a row.

Most importantly-today, I was personally honored to ride for Bob Wakefield. He was a fellow Nuke with a special love for USNA, especially his Class of 1973. I cherish even the little time I had to speak with Bob at our 45^th reunion.

Tom Tesoriero