… I know you share my love for democracy so I encourage you to send some words of encouragement to the protestors in Sudan who are giving up their lives to promote freedom. Some acknowledgement from you that it's not right for unarmed people to be shot for speaking their minds would go a long way. I know you are busy but a quick tweet would do wonders…
… Tom Rice re-enacted his jump today into a field near Carentan. He's 97-years old. I can't imagine jumping out of an airplane ever, let alone when I'm that age. He says he is bothered by what he had to do in the war and that all GIs suffer from the same blame and shame. It makes me sad to think that he's had to live a lifetime with that weight…
I heard your remarks to QE at the State dinner last night. Thanks for sticking to your script and reminding the world of the strong ties between Great Britain and the US. I love that you brought up QE's time as a mechanic during WWII. Isn't it wonderful that she knows how to change a spark plug? I don't know how to do that, do you? …
… Since you're going to be involved in commemorations of the 75th Anniversary of D-Day on your trip, you might take a look at my uncle's book, "D-Day: The Climactic Battle of WWII." It tells the story from the view of the guys who flew the planes, parachuted behind enemy lines, drove the Higgins assault landing crafts, climbed the bluffs on the beaches and manned the tanks….
… What was your impression of the new Emperor Naruhito (EN)? I hope he continues in his father's tradition of bringing a message of peace to Japan. I understand that his wife has struggled with mental health issues because she has not been able to bear a son. Wouldn't it be great if EN bucked tradition and turned the throne over to his daughter when the time comes? …
It looks like you are having a blast in Japan. I'm jealous. Golf, sumo, Japanese BBQ - sounds like fun. Some say that AS is on a charm offensive and that this trip is all about demonstrating the strong bonds between Japan and the USA. It looks to me like two buddies are getting together to have some fun. …
How was your flight to Japan? I see that you hit the ground running. Getting off the plane and immediately talking to a group of business men, that's impressive. …Have you seen the sumo match yet? I hope no one heckles you for sitting in a chair at ringside displacing some fans and disrespecting the tradition of sitting on the floor.
