Hi Bob and WELCOME HOME BROTHER! Liked your story and I too have one similar. I served with Hotel 2nd Bn 26th Marines. Participated in Opp Brave Armada. Please, first let me acknowlege the brave Marines that were with me during that operation, Mr. John Renner(KIA) and my other brothers that were WIA. Similar to your story about going out during the day, we too were notified to "saddle up". While on the sweep, which was slow and tedious, during one of those down moments a Vietnamese man approached me, he spoke in very broken english. Once I determined what he wanted it really took me aback. Here is a peasent with little more then his "hooch" and family and limited means to provide for them. The man actually was inviting me to join he and his family for a dinner of fish and rice. This I will never forget. The gesture has humbled me to this day. Although the war had many horrible moments, this experience was one of the few really worth remembering. Bob, thankyou for your service and Semper Fi!
Bob, great popsicle story, I served on Hill 190 from Feb 69 to Feb 70, I was one of the Amtracer's that taxied your 26th Marines around the region! The young boy described sounded like "Joe" a very industrious 10 year old young man that seemed like he could come up with anything you wanted or needed! I have a picture of him and I together. I am sure if he survived he is a very successful youg man. Good Luck and Congrats on your success! Ken Rush
#2 Ken Rush (www.sellersburgstone.com) on Nov 8 2007, 09:25 Reply
I am looking for anyone that might have known my father, Norman R. Hoemke. He died suddenly a year and a half ago and would like to know more about him, the war was not something that he talked about with his family. He was on the USS Valley Forge it looks like in late May of 1969. From his military records, he was part of Operation Brave Armada. I would love to talk to anyone that may have known him, I just think about what all of the soldiers went through and it makes me sad that anyone had to experience this. If you knew him, please let me know, I would love to hear stories that my Dad never had the chance to tell us. Thank you for all you did for our country and thank God for little pieces of heaven like vanilla popsicles!
Ms. England, was your father in H&S company with the second battalion 26 marines. He was a corporal if it is the same man. He used to drive a jeep for us. I was on the Valley Forge for several months. I wonder if ity was him. It's now been almost 39 years.
Mike Flood corporal USMC
#3.1 mike flood (2/26 marines 1969) on Nov 8 2007, 20:50 Reply
I may have been with you that day off hill 190-the popsicle story is somehow familiar. It was before we left for Subic on the Valley Forge-June '69 or so. I was a rto in Fox 3/2, 9th mab. I was later hit during operation Brave Armada. We humped some of the same real estate anyway. Saw your site today-some good memories.
Jerry Ostrander, L/cpl retired 510-985-3039 monarchyachts@aol.com Emeryville, CA
This makes me weep. This was a sign. The LORD was telling you that you are going to make it out of Viet Nam. I bet the other guys with you all made it out too. Now today you have your pop cycle. I really like stories like these. There was a I think (Navy) flier (Charlie phlum) Who was the brother in-law of my English teacher in high school who wrote a book called (I’m no hero). Who was an inspiration to me and this kind of story inspires me.
P.S. I noticed there are no comments to this Post. That is due to no one can relate to it. That is a same.
#5 Alan Hawver (http://Alanthehandyman.com) on Sep 21 2006, 03:37 Reply
Dear Ray, My daughter, who owns her own advertising agency and is "on the computer" all day, it seems, sent me your website and stories to read today for the first time. I knew when I read about the little boy with the popsicles, that he just HAD to be angel sent to you fellows in the jungle that day. I just wanted to say this because I didn't see anyone mentioning that except one person who said that maybe you would find out the "big guy in the sky" had done this for you. from a Believer: Barb
#6 Barbara diBenedetto on Apr 19 2005, 07:53 Reply
Dear Barb,
That's a very interesting observation and one that never occurred to me until I read your post.
It may sound strange, but one thing I personally believe in happen to be the existance of Angels. I believe I've had one by my side as long as I can remember.
First, why on such an innocuous posting do you not feel comfortable providing your contact information? Tells me that what you're saying is indeed bogus. You also didn't show where you read that story.
I'll tell you this. The story I recount actually happened. It wasn't a dream, and it's not a second hand story. It happened to me.
My name is So Lung Chim, It is very funny. I remeber rike it ras resterday. Thats Right Rob, Its re. My mom gave me dong to buy the famiry rom rice, I was roung at re time and went and bought Vanilla Pops. When returning home, My Mom ras furious adn sent me out and sain come home with food. So rittle did you know how much those rations helped me out. Thanks. I am now a 45 yr old .
I posted this so you can see firsthand, how some idiots spend thier free time. The pinhead who wrote this email actually thinks this is either funny (which it's not —- well it maybe funny because we see how stupid some of us actually are), or that it's going to make me think I'm actually hearing from the main character in my story.
And, of course it was written and submitted by Anonymous with no contact information.
Reading this message makes me believe more and more in the Darwin awards, which recounts actual events where the severely stupid among us, do even more stupid things and kill themselves as a result. The benefit to the rest of us, of course, is that they remove their incredibly unintelligent selves from the gene pool. Which when you think about it, is no small gift to mankind.
Your story touched me on so many levels, but mostly because I grew up watching the Vietnam war on tv along with my little sister, who recently passed away. I believe the fact that the war was broadcast daily on television (though hard to watch) and brought into people's living rooms brought the war to an end sooner than it might have been (although not nearly soon enough) because of popular outrage. The fact that the news is censored now speaks volumes for the fact that the government doesn't want people to see firsthand the gruesome reality of war. They like to talk the talk, but are afraid to show the walk. My brother was in the Army during that unspeakable time but was fortunate enough to be stationed in Africa, and I am forever grateful that he returned safely home. For me and my little sister, our favorite time of any summer day was, of course when the popsicle man came around - and guess which flavor was my favorite? (and still is!)
Thanks Bob, This is my favorite thing about life. Random events that stand out sooo much that you carry them with you forever. I would guess you have probably thought of those popsicles 1000's of times. Maybe told the story a hundred more to friends. Now with the internet.. 1000's+ more get to hear it. Amazing.. I appreciate you giving me a boost on a random Tuesday.
#11 Thump (www.racingdaylight.blogger.com) on Mar 30 2005, 08:00 Reply
You are truly lucky! My brother came home from Viet Nam in a box after only three weeks. I miss him still and constantly wonder what kind of man he would have become.
I also just realized that you are the "Parsons" in Parsons Technology. I have bought bunches of your software and enjoyed every one. I still use them even though Microsoft has seemingly taken over the marketplace.
#13 thorn firelight (www.firelightfitness.com) on Mar 15 2005, 23:17 Reply
Bob,
What a great story! I lived in Viet Nam (Da Nang) a little over 5 years ago while working at a 5-star resort on China Beach (it's next to the old Army base). I understand how hot it gets and I used to dream about those popsicles...but reality set in and I had to settle for warm beer...which I suppose is better than nothing.
Thanks for bringing a smile to my face.
Cheers!
#14 Rob Conaway (Hotels-in-Sedona.com) on Mar 13 2005, 18:33 Reply
Bob, You are the best. A true American original. Keep those stories coming. -a fan in NYS
What a great story, reminds me of a coke I had in Basic Training ARMY 76 Ft Leonard Wood Mo. Of course you were not allowed to have soft drinks in Boot Camp but as a 17 yo kid from Baltimore (Ellicott City) I was dying for a coke, and while on Fire Watch at 3am I kept staring at this Coke Machine near the Drill Seargents Office. Now it never crossed my mind why there was a coke machine in a barracks where soft drinks where not allowed, they where a quarter then, and I did have two dimes and a nickle to my name and I was tempted,
So after several rounds of looking for smoldering cigs or whatever fire watch does I developed a strategy, at each pass I would insert a coin, the 4th round I would press the coke button, So there I went
Well to my surprise the minute I pushed the button the Drill Seargents door flung open, Drill Seargent Collier shadowed the door and yelled in a paniced manner to hurry up and get everyone out of bed and outside in formation,
What luck I had the minute I pushed the button the door opens, I couln't believe it until he said " Dont forget your Coke" I new right then I was dead.
After I got everyone up and outside still carrying my coke, the Seargent said he wanted everyone to watch me enjoy my coke, so the platoon did grass drills and I drank coke, I tried to drink as fast as I could but he kept fishing another quarter out of his pocket and sending some soul into get me another coke, I was at a loss as what to do drink fast, slow, I'm belching burping and almost puking, after 8 cokes he called it quits
The next few weeks were hell, I took many sucker punches and fought off a few blanket parties. But in the end it was all still worth it,
I will never forget that coke(s) as long as I live but it is one of the few moments that I can remember in vivid detail of 3 years in the Army.
Thanks for the story and great products
Pat Conroy
#16 Pat Conroy (www.bluewhaleenterprises.com) on Mar 8 2005, 17:39 Reply
Dear Mr. Parsons, In responce to "Vanilla Popsicles" > At the same time you were in Viet Nam, I was in high school wearing a copper bracelette for a POW that later did return home, Thank God! Evidence that there is power in prayer. As a young hippy girl, I stood up for peace - not so much "anti-war", more so FOR PEACE...more so FOR THE SAFETY and HAPPINESS of all people. Born into a military family (Navy) & father retired from the Federal Gov., and miliyary siblings, I truely understand the necessity of our armed forces...Our soldiers and leaders, bequething my highest regard for duty and honor, have my humbled respect.
Truely a GREAT story! Thanks for sharing.
I have a simular experience: remembering my dearest friend, Brian Fuller who was drown last summer here on The Outer Banks, and dolphins that were sent to make me laugh!
Hello Bob, I just have to tell you I think your story about Vanilla Popsicles has a lot of meaning to it. There are so many times in life that things are at their worse and yet when we stand strong something good comes out of it. I am proud of all Americans that risk their lives for us each and every day to keep us safe and free. God bless American! GoDaddy.com has been my Vanilla Popsicle many of times, your staff has been there to answer my questions and to help "me" when in need. You offer the best service and products available and I will continue to grow my businesses with the help of GoDaddy. Thank you GoDaddy and thank you Bob for sharing this with us.
#20 Tim Shockey (http://www.hollywoodpropcollector.com) on Feb 28 2005, 18:25 Reply
No need to post. I was just wondering if you have an archive link? I'd like to go back to take a look at Mickey Rooney's bottom - I mean, the story about it. Thanks, Michelle
On the right nav just click "Hot Points" and then scroll down among the articles on do a search on Mickey Rooney. You'll find the article called "Mickey Rooney's bare rear end. Why you should care about it."
I thought I was pretty lucky, sitting on the beach here at Waikiki, modifying my little collection of godaddy websites by wifi on a portable computer. Your vanilla ice cream story reiterates that you are luckier than most of us, and that you appreciate it. Thanks for selling me the vanilla ice cream your cheap domain names and websites have represented to me for the last few years. Great story — keep telling them. Best Wishes, Petur Williams
#22 Petur Williams (http://wmseco.com) on Feb 27 2005, 14:59 Reply
Re: Vanilla Popsicles - Thanks for making my day! What a wonderful story. I thank you for sharing it.
#24.1.1 Joy (www.PalmCanyonDrive.org) on Mar 14 2005, 11:59 Reply
A great story! Not something I would expect from what one usually hears about the war in Vietnam. Unfortunately there is no way of posting a picture here but I have one of an Ice Cream man that you would not believe exists. Its a guy who adapted his Ice Cream cart to navigate from beach to beach in a coastal state in Venezuela (from where I am). Seeing him is sure to make you laugh and... buy him an Ice Cream immediately, even though his prices are three to four times more expensive than what you get in the mainland. Changing subject, I like the fact that you have this Blog and that it is possible to communicate with you, not neccessarily about your services but about other subjects too. I buy all domains from you and its nice to know that the President of my domain provider is Human and, in a way, reachable. This last paragraph sounds like I'm trying to flatter you which I'm not (but Yes, I will accept a free domain if you insist!).
Best Regards,
Guillermo Casanova
#25 Guillermo Casanova (http://www.guillermocasanova.com) on Feb 26 2005, 15:57 Reply
Giving something back. That day the boy gave to you guys, and you gave the boy what he needed and it goes around and around. We try to give back also. I have always been taught to cherish life, every moment. We never know what the next corner will, or could bring. Preparing ourselves for our future we should always try to help our fellow man. I established a mission statement when I started my company. I wanted people to get something back for helping me grow. That is why my company gives Candy and a donation to charity on every paid order. I know most of you will say I am just trying to advertise my site. Yes this is true, but I also challenge everyone who is operating a business to give back. Giving back will not only help your business, but most importantly could create a pleasant memory of a lifetime for someone we may never see again. Sincerely, Victor Vovakes CEO/Founder Astoreonline.com
#26 Victor Vovakes (Astoreonline.com) on Feb 26 2005, 09:02 Reply
Hi Bob, In my opinion (and you know by now that I have one for most everything) this moment was not an insignificant one. In fact, from your vivid recollection of it, I’d say it meant quite a lot to you. It’s also interesting to me that you were willing to take a risk on that treat. It could have cost you far more than Salems, as the boy could have been an enemy sent to poison yanks - but he wasn’t. Perhaps this speaks to your keen ability to discern good from bad intentions, which would certainly explain – at least in part – why you have been so successful in certain areas of your life. I really liked this story, mostly because I deliberately look for those “insignificant” instances on a daily basis myself – as I believe that they are at the core of what life is really all about; in other words, learning to live in, and enjoy, each moment. It would not surprise me to learn one day, when this life has passed into eternity, that the little boy was actually sent to you by the Big Guy Himself - not just to quench the heat on the battlefield, but to point you to good things that would come to you in your future. A marker, if you will, that would help you recognize the good in life as it happens. I mean, after such an unexpected and memorable serendipity, you can’t help looking for vanilla popsicles to show up once in awhile – a bright spot in what can sometimes be a mundane routine. Am I right? –Michelle PS (This also may explain why you like vanilla ice-cream more than all the rest. I recall that you mentioned in an earlier blog that you don’t know why it’s your favorite. Perhaps this memory is tied to it?)
During WWII my late father used to trade dried egg powder for fresh food with the civilians in Italy They needed the egg powder to make noodles and pasta.
I saw a post Superbowl godaddy commercial on the History Channel. I had taped the show and rewound it a few times. Yup! the shirt she was wearing did indeed say "Godaddy.com".
#28 Greg Lang (http://soliah.com) on Feb 26 2005, 00:49 Reply
Hello Bob - while on training maneuvers with 3/9 in the Philippines in '86.. The local folks would come out of what seemed to be nowhere and trade us a home cooked breakfast of fried eggs, beans, a tortilla, and a sprite for our MRE's. Oh, we thought we were in the middle of nowhere.. but apparently we were not.
Liked your story and I too have one similar. I served with Hotel 2nd Bn 26th Marines. Participated in Opp Brave Armada. Please, first let me acknowlege the brave Marines that were with me during that operation, Mr. John Renner(KIA) and my other brothers that were WIA.
Similar to your story about going out during the day, we too were notified to "saddle up". While on the sweep, which was slow and tedious, during one of those down moments a Vietnamese man approached me, he spoke in very broken english. Once I determined what he wanted it really took me aback. Here is a peasent with little more then his "hooch" and family and limited means to provide for them. The man actually was inviting me to join he and his family for a dinner of fish and rice. This I will never forget. The gesture has humbled me to this day. Although the war had many horrible moments, this experience was one of the few really worth remembering.
Bob, thankyou for your service and Semper Fi!
Bob B