On November 11, 1946, Phil had an opportunity to accompany President Truman and Secretary of the Navy James Forrestal to the Tomb of the Unknowns, where a standing-room-only crowd waited for the solemn event in observance of Armistice Day. [1]

After the President placed a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknowns, there was a traditional minute of silence, which stirred Phil’s heart as he pondered all those he served with who didn’t come home from the war.

11/11/46 — CAPT Philip B Larimore, Jr, saluting as President Truman lays a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknowns

A single bugler played the moving and powerful “Taps” as President Truman held his black hat over his heart.

Phil noticed tears streaking down the President’s cheeks. Afterward, President Truman pulled Phil aside and asked him if he knew the bugler who blew “Taps.”

“Yes, sir,” Phil replied.

“Then tell him he did one hell of a job.”

“I will, sir,” Phil said, snapping a salute.

As he watched the President being led back to his limousine, Phil was grateful that the Commander in Chief understood the sacrifices that men like him made on the battlefield.

Now, if only the Army Retiring Board could see things the same way.[2]

~~~~~

[1] Larimore, At First Light, 322.

[2] Larimore, At First Light, 322-323.

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