As a small child I admired a very handsome picture of my uncle in his Cadet Whites, displayed proudly on my Grandmother's living room shelf. My Uncle David was the fourth oldest of 11 children. He joined the Navy in 1954 and went to flight school at N.A.S. Pensacola, Florida. He achieved the rank of Lieutenant Commander.
My uncle was stationed at NAS Alameda and NAS Moffet Field, California. His tour was on the carrier USS Midway. His esteemed career as a jet fighter continued through March, 1968.
My Uncle David went on to graduate from the University of San Francisco and worked as a stock broker. I loved visiting him and his family in their beautiful home in San Mateo, California. He was a "foodie" before "foodies" were cool. He is also a wine connoisseur, highly intellectual and always interested in learning something new. These attributes make for some fabulous dinner parties.
These days my Uncle David lives in sunny San Jose, near his son, David McNeil Luna.
He is the wise patriarch of the family.
It is with much admiration, love and respect that I wish my Uncle David a very Happy Birthday. A fine Octogenarian, who served his country well as an Officer and has always been a true gentleman.
To celebrate his birthday this year I will toast my dear uncle with a fine glass of his favorite red wine and make one of his appetizer recipes that I remember from those amazing dinner parties. Consider yourself "debriefed."
USS Midway Appetizer
6 green onions, chopped fine
2 small cans chopped olives
2 C shredded cheddar cheese
6 Tbsp mayonnaise
9 slices crisp bacon, crumbled
Mix all ingredients together
Spread on 2 loaves of Party Rye Bread
Bake in the oven for 3-5 minutes just until cheese melts, or broil for 2-3 minutes - watch carefully!
Enjoy!
Happy 80th Birthday, Uncle David!!
