Gramps 1918-2008
My grandfather passed away on Tuesday. We called him "Gramps." He was a marine, the greatest man I'll ever know, and my best friend.
He died peacefully, surrounded by family. We celebrated his 90th birthday just three days prior. My birthday present to him was an arrangement and performance of the Marines' Hymn on acoustic guitar. I'm deeply saddened by his death, but overjoyed that I was able to play this for him on his birthday.
I made a recording of it today. The sound isn't great, but it's the best I can do with what I've got. The arrangement is based on Sammy Nestico's "Marines' Hymn Apotheosis" and borrows from popular military band arrangements.
20lbCat is the son of Dog (1 May 2008 at 6:35am)
If he had written the script, Gramps couldn't have made it a more perfect ending. Actually I'm pretty sure he did write the script. What a tribute, Joe.
jason (1 May 2008 at 7:25am)
Joe, I'm sorry to hear about your loss.
Mark Wein (1 May 2008 at 9:36am)
Sorry to hear about your loss....
IG (2 May 2008 at 9:52am)
Nice send-off Joe, very touching. Got goose bumps...
IG
Tony Hogan (6 May 2008 at 3:35am)
Hi Buddy,
Sorry to hear about your grandad. I'm sure you'll do him proud with your music.
All the best wishes to you and your family.
Tony Hogan
Ovidiu - GuitarFlame.com (13 May 2008 at 11:33pm)
Sorry for your loss, Joe...
Losing someone dear is always bad.
Great playing, with a lot of feeling...
Tony Hogan (15 May 2008 at 9:07pm)
Checking in to see that you're faring OK
T