I Found An Old "Friend"

Last evening, while going through some old paperwork from  wunderlust2012.com,  I came across the 'web site' of  an (old soul) friend - I met on my journey.

His name was Monte.  We met by chance, at 'Bell 2 Lodge' - on Hwy 37 (the Stewart-Cassiar Highway), in northern British Columbia, Canada.

We (Sarge, Monte & I) were delayed due to a 'spring wash-out' on the Alaskan Highway - between Watson Lake & Whitehorse, Yukon, Canada.

Monte gave us a 'heads-up' that the wash-out would be lengthy; and he was headed south to bi-pass the problem - via ferry at Prince Rupert ... 'Bell 2 Lodge' was the only fueling / lodging facility till Watson Lake, Yukon & facilities there were full - with police turning everyone around. Sarge & I would eat and adjust our plans, as well. Monte was leaving right away.  Monte rode a new 800 BMW GS - loaded for bear.

We then parted - Sarge & I went into the Lodge restaurant - for a late breakfast. Looking out the window in the drizzle, Monte was taking his helmet & jacket off.

He was quite tired  & wet; as he had slept outside the Lodge that night - in steady drizzle ...

He commented, that someone had pulled up in a car & slept the night - right in front of him - & hadn't offered him shelter from the rain. I could sense that Monte was agitated by this (I would be too). He was very tired ...

You might ask why - with only this short & chance meeting - I consider him 'my friend'.

I don't have too many, that I consider to be a 'true' friend.

For-the-most part, I think 'guys' are like that (sorry ladies). I think it's our 'warrior spirit' instincts, that dictates  if  'trust exists'.

We don't let our emotions be felt - because we might have to try & 'kill' one another ... Sounds barbaric - but true!

I could sense - right away - I wanted to be his friend.

Monte, came into the restaurant and joined us for breakfast. It was an 'emotional' meeting. What a truly 'great' human being.  He was on a 'solo' trip as well - to visit friends along the way. Many with 'health issues' from the 'service'.

Monte had been a 'Squad Leader' with the United States Marine Corps -  & had been awarded the 'PRESTIGIOUS Purple Heart'.

This came out during the two (2) hour conversation we had - by accident.

I could sense he was very 'humble' discussing this - when so many of his friends were unwell.

He mentioned that after going to Alaska; he was going south via Minnesota: and then to South America. One of the 'highlights' of his journey - was to present  'HIS Purple Heart' to his friend & fellow Marine - who was dying ... 

I'll always remember what he said - something to this effect.  He said: "The 'Purple Heart' means more to him; having his friend have it; than him having it, on his own wall."

Thank-You Monte Notton, for your service ...

'I  SALUTE  YOU' !

Visit Monte's Web Site @ 'www.mike31america.wordpress.com'.

Web site, no-longer available ...

Monte & I, after breakfast at 'Bell 2 Lodge' ...