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.
He was a jet fighter, landing his jets with precision accuracy on aircraft carriers in the middle of the Pacific Ocean.
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!!
5 comments:
Happy Birthday Uncle David!
This was so beautifully written, it brought tears to my eyes. As I read and remember these great accomplishments of my dear Uncle David, my heart swells with love & pride! Thank you Rena!
very sweet article Rena. Happy Birthday to Uncle David
Very well written, Rena. U have a way with the words.
Happy belated birthday to uncle Dave.
Happy 80th Birthday David. It's been years since I've seen you. But I will always remember your soft voice and kindness to me and everyone else. GOD has blessed you will many years of happiness and alot to be proud of. Someday you will make that final flight home, but what a legecy you leave behind to the Luna Family!
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