From the day I decided to finally hang up the broadcast headphones after I finally got my 90% service-connected disability rating from the VA for the Parkinson’s disease I contracted from drinking the poisoned water at Camp Lejeune, NC, from 1975 to 1977, this morning was the culmination of my dreams.

After using the 18-months of back pay to buy a car, secure a nice apartment and buy new furnishings, this is what I was looking forward to.

Sitting on the little patio steps away from the lift-recliner, in weather finally cool enough to enjoy a morning stogie.

Later this afternoon, my bride and I will sit out there while I sip a nice 12-year old scotch and puff on an evening stogie.

Mission Accomplished!