Let me introduce you...

To this badass! This is my Grandpa Gene. I know if he had to describe himself he would first and foremost say he's a proud Army veteran. He served 22 years on active duty as an Airborne Ranger and let me tell you, this guy has some stories! He's a highly decorated Vietnam vet, having earned the Silver Star, 3 Bronze Stars, 3 Purple Hearts and many other accolades.

Vietnam 1968

He's also a published author and lover of all things literature. He served as an editor of a local newspaper in Northern Mississippi for 25 years after his Army retirement. This man was always my hero growing up, he inspired me to join the military and always provides the best book recommendations.

The German blood in him definitely shows itself when beer is involved. He could always drink everyone I knew under the table.

One day recently, he stood up and just fell forward and was immediately rushed to the hospital. Unfortunately, on August 16th he was told that he had developed lung cancer. Within a few days it was determined to have progressed to stage 4 and metastasized to his liver, bones, adrenal glands and abdominal lymph nodes. His world was turned upside down in a matter of days and the doctors provided a remaining life estimate of "Weeks to months".

He's a fighter though, always has been and always will be. His spirits remain high and he's determined to make the best of the remaining life he has. It's an unofficial tradition in my family for males to join a branch of the military and the majority of women become nurses. He's been released from the hospital and is being cared for by his family in the comfort of his own home.

I created this post to remember him by and to let others know what a great man he really is. I've always felt him to be the backbone of our family and will dearly miss him when he's gone.

I've created a gofundme on behalf of my Grandma to assist in any end of life care and expenses that may arise. The last thing I want her worrying about is finances during this difficult transition. If interested, it can be found here: https://www.gofundme.com/2mudvz64

Edit - Dog Tax! http://imgur.com/a/EfBA2