Charlie Wilson

I first traveled to the Nation's capitol - Washington, D.C. when I was 15. It was the summer after my freshman year in high school. The trip was the BIG band trip. The every 4 year trip which in recent years had been to Disney World. Instead it was D.C. It was fun and the highlight was performing on the steps of the nation's capitol. Rep. Charlie Wilson was a huge part in making that happen. I will always remember that. Meeting him was a joy and in years following I would always tell the story of the little band from Hardin, Texas that traveled to the U.S. Capitol. Ironically an old high school friend posted some pix from our trip a few days ago on facebook. I thought of Charlie Wilson again and the entire wonderful experience. I will always have fond memories of a great moment with wonderful people growing up including my favortite band director Gary Monroe. Years and years later the victories of Charlie Wilson were brought to the big screen in Charlie Wilson's War with Tom Hanks and Julia Roberts. I again told the story. Sadly Charlie Wilson lost his battle and died today. I will always remember him - BIG TEXAS LEGEND with a heart for the world.

http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/ap/top/all/6861155.html