Freddy and Russell loved to begin their day at the feed store. The Sheriffs ‘Deputies felt like they were celebrities there. Any time a big event happened in the county, they got asked about it at the feed store. They didn’t realize that behind their backs they were referred to as “Barney” and “Deputy Donut”. They were friends and the only way to see each other, was over coffee in the mornings. Working in different patrol cars, there was no telling where they might be during the day. Freddy’s wife worked at the donut shop and he always had a box of day-old donuts to add to the coffee table. Everyone teased him and said that must be why he married her.
The wooden bench outside was about 15’ long and covered with galvanized sheet metal. It was covered because the old geezers had a habit of testing the sharpness of their pocket knives on the wood. The years and countless numbers of old mens’ butts had worn the metal to a shiny black finish. It was well worn and the evidence of that said, “Here to serve man”.
Inside was a large round table with six chairs and several newspapers to read while drinking coffee. A smaller table with a large coffee urn, packs of sugar, creamer, and stale donuts. Some of the guys even brought their own coffee mugs to put on the table. Carr Benton had great memories from his early childhood of old men whittlin’ at the feed store and swapping yarns. He made his store and old man friendly zone. He often referred to them as our “Greek Chorus”.
The regulars were in their seventies and retired. Most started their day with yarns, donuts, and coffee till 10 am or so. Then they would go home. On any given day there would be 10 or so old geezers. About half would be Vietnam veterans. Outside on the bench, telling tales of derring-do were de rigueur. That is where Freddie and Russell would gravitate. Deep down they probably knew that the passing of years and lack of witnesses had made these feats of heroism grow to mythic proportions. But they loved them just the same. They felt a kinship because they carried guns as once did these men. They lapped it all up and relished every minute. After all, these old men really did something long ago.
Vic changed the conversation to life in America during the late 60s’. The anti-war movement, riots, and the radical changes their country went through. He remembered, “I bought a VW bus and put daisies all over it and headed off to college on the G.I. bill. Damn it was fun. I wished I would have partied less and studied more though.”
Glenn said, “Don’t forget the sexual revolution, twas a grand thing to experience. I used to use the old ‘I’ve seen the horrors of war and it’s left deep emotional scars’ ruse, trying to get laid.”
Freddy asked, “Did that work?”
“Kinda iffy really.”
Vic said, “I joined the Vietnam Veterans Against the War.”
Immediately everyone said in shock, “Why would you do that?”
“They had the best dope and pussy”
A look as if to say, “Well Played!” crossed everyone’s faces.
Except for Freddy and Russell. They were horrified to find out their heroes condoned dope-smoking and said so.
“Why that was the cherry on top of the Summer of Love,” said Glenn.