A solider thanks Keith Hernandez and the Mets

I try to keep good blogger etiquette and not do long excerpts, but given this week’s storyline I thought it would be good to share this one and increase the chances that it resonates in the Metsiverse.

From a Reds blog written by Americansoldier:

I’m still a Soldier, and Lynne and I are still going strong – 21 years now – and I’m having the opportunity these days to work at Walter Reed Army Medical Center.  From time to time, you can see some celebrities come to WRAMC to visit our “Wounded Warriors” – those who have been seriously wounded, injured during our deployments into Harm’s Way.  The Super Bowl Champion New Orleans Saints paid a visit to our Heroes a few weeks ago.  I stay away from these events – the celebrities come to see “Our Celebrities,” and I’m strong in my beliefs that “it’s not about me.”

Well, just a few days ago, I saw some familiar faces in civilian dress walking outside towards our main pavilon, hospital building – I was returning from visiting patients, Etc.  These guys came in large groups – big giveaway.  They were wearing different modes of neat attire – from suits to blue jeans, and they had hospital reps with them.  They were clearly V.I. Guests.

I did recognize the Met’s manager, Jerry Manuel – can’t mistake him, and said hello.  He smiled back and returned my greeting – very kind man, and I was very appreciate of their visit.

BUT…the one ballplayer – out of all the stars who were there, and I believe I recognized David Wright and others as well – was a great NY Met from the past – Keith Hernandez.

I wasn’t carrying a pen on my uniform – of all the times – and I asked a fellow Soldier to borrow a pen and I asked another for a scrap of paper.  I got an index card, and I covered the 50 or so yards in no time – thank God for Army training/staying in decent shape.  I got to Mr. Hernandez in just enough time before they entered the back of the building.

Keith Hernandez has aged some – like the rest of us, but he’s done it with grace; there’s no doubt who he is today.  I called out his name, and he turned around.  I quickly asked for his autograph, and he graciously supplied it.  I thanked Mr. Hernandez and the rest of the Mets for coming to see our Soldiers, and I left.  They had important people to see…

Mr. Hernandez, if you read this, or someone alerts you to this, “Thank YOU, Sir, and the Rest of the Mets.

via Getting Back To Fun Again…: THANK YOU, MR. HERNANDEZ & NEW YORK METS….