IT SEEMED LIKE THE final betrayal.
I was going to tell you much more about the trial, the veterans’ class-action suit against the companies that manufactured Agent Orange. I was going to detail the cover-up—what and when Dow and Monsanto knew about the contaminants, and why they kept the information to themselves. I was going to explain the $180 million settlement but there is no time, no time at all. I will tell you it is not over. There has been a settlement but not a final determination. Of the millions, Sara, it appears, will receive $3,600 as compensation from the chemical companies for Bobby’s death. There is no compensation from the VA or the government.
I feel like the Mad Hatter, or the White Rabbit. Which one? Ah well ... I’m late. I’m late. For a very important ... You see, I can no longer attend to the past. I can no longer let them have my mind. Linda and I sold our house.
We’re moving. Maybe that’s what we’re here about, to answer the questions on how it has all changed, to look at the future, at our hopes, to wonder why things have gone so awry, so out of whack, and to hope through our actions and our thoughts and through changing perspectives, beliefs and attitudes, perhaps we can regain control, re-right the ship of state and the ship of culture, plot and follow a course where all people can hope for life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.
So I’ve come here now, Bobby, to tell you this. Linda and I are going to attempt to resurrect the high meadows of your spirit. We’re back in business. With my father’s help we have purchased High Meadow. The core staff is returning. Gary Sherrick, too.