IMG_0918.JPG
Daryl-USMC 71-73
While in Atlanta Georgia visiting family I was driving under a bridge near the well known 1996 Olympics overhang, I looked out of the drivers side window and saw a man under the bridge laying under a blanket curled up in the fetal position. The blanket was dirty from being on streets but as the evening set I remembered from a former career that this is about the time that those who live on the streets have been a fed and are looking for shelter. So, I made a turn and backed up and asked, “Sir were you a military veteran?” He replied, yeah why, perking up his chest and chin!” I said I’m a documentary photographer trying to share veteran stories, as well as a veteran and I want to hear your story.
He told me it wasn’t much. I said it may not be but tell me how you ended up here. He said I was a cook in the Marines, during Nam as he said and told me that this was the job he was given and since then has battled injuries keeping him in and out of work. I told him my story briefly and Daryl began to tear up. I asked did I say something that upset you? He replied no, it’s not often anyone stops to speak to you. I told him that as I document you in my project I hope that many hear you. I told him that I didn’t have long to stay but wished him the best and encouraged him to keep fighting the good fight and he responded Gods speed.