RIP Jim Caesar

James M. Caesar December 11, 1945 - February 13, 2014 Bothell, Washington  Good morning--my update this time is a difficult one for me to write.  My darling Jim died in his sleep early the morning of February 14th while we were on Kauai to celebrate the 50th anniversary of our engagement on that day.  He was in excellent health, vigorous and full of good humor until the very end.  His final words to me before we went to sleep were "I love you."  He just did not awaken. It gives me great solace to know that he will be forever young.  Jim's funeral and internment will be at Arlington Cemetery, with full military honors.  However, it will be some months down the road--there is a waiting list for grave sites abt 4 months long.  Until then, his rests in a facility known as a  the Solders' Shelter which is near Arlington.  I will of course be back there for the final ceremonies--perhaps I can see you at that time.  And you are of course welcomed and encouraged by me and my family to attend.  I will send more information when it is available to me.  Jim and I so much cherished the opportunity life gave us to be your neighbors--what luck!  Love,  Betsy Awarded for actions during the Vietnam War The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 2, 1926, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain James M. Caesar, United States Army, for heroism while participating in aerial flight evidenced by voluntary actions above and beyond the call of duty. Captain Caesar distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions while serving as aircraft commander in the wing ship of a light fire team of helicopter gunships in support of Allied ground elements near Fire Support Base Five. Captain Caesar voluntarily flew his aircraft against heavily fortified enemy small arms and anti-aircraft positions. Despite the intense barrage of fire, Captain Caesar continually made close runs, in extremely poor visibility and hazardous terrain, to place highly effective and accurate rocket fire on the hostile positions. Captain Caesar displayed outstanding leadership abilities, directing his co-pilot's fire to suppress the enemy positions and at the same time covering the vulnerable lead aircraft. His previous combat experience enabled him to comprehend the friendly elements plight and assist them in finding cover from the attacking enemy. His outstanding skill as an aviator allowed him to successfully complete the mission. Captain Caesar's courage, professionalism, and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army. General Orders: Citation Courtesy of the Distinguished Flying Cross Society - www.dfcsociety.org Action Date: Vietnam War Service: Army Rank: Captain Mo Sup checked her e-mail late last night and found this from an old neighbor, and still good friend, Betsy Caesar.  I still haven't quite wrapped my head around it. Meeting Jim and Betsy was something of a serendipitous accident. With Jim's tour in Germany ending, he announced his intention to retire when his current enlistment was up.  He had to choose a stateside home of record from whence he would be processed, and where their household belongings would be sent. Since they were from the Seattle area, Jim wrote "Washington."  Jim was given orders to report to his new home: Fort Meade MD (just outside of Washington D.C.) Jim found a job test piloting, and they purchased a home next to ours.  Our good fortune.  Later Jim was offered a job with Boeing, in Seattle, and off they went, but would visit us several times. I can't let Jim go without offering this small paean to his memory.  RIP Jim.