5 Feb 2005
Any time someone does something nice for me, I also make a point to pay the favor back.
Jim actually saved my life in January 1970.  The incident is pretty well-known to Marine
Aviation and involves a barroom fight in Angeles City, The Philippines.  A Huk guard pointed a
loaded .45 into my abdomen with the clear intention to blow me away.  Jim spotted the move
and warned me, "Doc, he has a gun!" "No shit, Gillies!" I replied.  As he fired, Jim pushed the
gunman aside for me, and I felt the warm blast pass by my shirt.  We both headed out of the
bar, post haste.

I returned home after my tour in the Marine Corps concluded in March 1970, and Jim was
reassigned into county to meet a sad destiny. With regrets, this is the only favor I can never
repay.  I have, however, made it a habit to think of Jim with fondness every time I hear the
Star Spangled Banner played.  I dedicate that moment to his memory.  I have asked my
daughter to continue the honor to Jim after I have gone to met him above.  It is the best that
I can do for him.

From his Flight Sugeon,
Captain George E. Wettach (MC)
USNR (Ret)
193 Willow Road, Menlo Park, Ca. 94025

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