This "empty chair" sits at the table which is the life of Wayne 'Doc' Dowd:
"Am I going to be OK Doc?"
"Yea, KC, you're going home.".. These were the last
words exchanged between Kevin and I. Moments later he drifted
into unconsciousness, minutes later he stopped breathing, and
his heart came to an eternal halt.
I carried these words in my heart for nearly 33 years, until
I finally unburdened myself by sharing them with his older brother
Tom. The night we met, Tom and I realized an unspoken, even
spiritual, connection. Kevin had been born into his family,
and died in mine. Charlie Company, First Battalion, First Marines,
First Marine Division.
The 'Empty Chair' left at the table that is my life, has been vacant for so long.. now it is filled with his brother's presence in my life. I thank the Lord for this healing connection, and His care of my lost friend. As long as I live KC lives in my heart.. and will not be forgotten.
I will live out the rest of my days in contentment, knowing though I lost Kevin so long ago.. I now have Tom to talk to when I miss 'our' brother.
Wayne 'Doc' Dowd