Sunday, March 6, 2022
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From Jack Gaffey
Dennis's Jeep
When we were in college, Dennis had an old US Army jeep that we loved
riding around the California desert in. On one of these trips, as we
were approaching a one-lane bridge over a dry arroyo, an old desert
rat in a rusty pickup truck sped up and entered the bridge first,
blocking our passage. The driver then leaned out the window and
sneered "I never back up for an idiot" to which Dennis replied "I
always do." Dennis backed off the bridge and waved to the driver. We
all laughed!
Freight Train Trip
In June and July of 1970 Dennis, Alan Glasser and I rode freight
trains from San Bernardino to Denver, sleeping in boxcars and sharing
food with hobos. After spending a few days in Denver, Alan took the
bus home and Dennis and I rode freight trains back. We had a number of
adventures along the way, some were a little bit frightening like when
we were chased by the railroad detective in Albuquerque, and some were
heart warming as when a hobo shared with us what little food he had.
Dennis and I hopped off the freight train in El Monte, CA, to avoid
going all the way to Los Angeles, where we could be more easily
spotted. After we walked out of the railroad yard Dennis called his
mother to come and get us. I guess she was used to Dennis' unusual
adventures because she came, picked up these two dirty railroad hobos,
and asked no questions.
I will miss you, Dennis, and thank you for all the great times we shared. ❤
