Guest Blog Series from our friend David Paul
In Part 1, 2 and 3 we learned that David wasn’t going to be able to trailer the Flabob Farmall to the show at the Harley Davidson dealership and had decided to drive it from the Flabob Airport (in Riverside, CA). He made it there successfully, had a great show and this final post is his report of the return trip. The souvenir mentioned at the end is a wonderfully gaudy 10″ x 12″ plaque with words and pictures emblazoned on it saying “12th Annual Pomona Valley Harley Motorcycle and Hot Rod Show May 19, 2012… Best Tractor”.
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Well the show ended about 4:00. I stuffed all the pumps, flags, poles and bases into my truck and parked it for a return trip.
I left the Harley parking lot this time with all 6 flags mounted. Down Central, passed the Montclair Plaza, up over the steep railroad bridge south of Holt with no trouble at all. Once tractor felt the load, governor kicked in and rich power growl was heard again.
Well at first I was going to stop at the Petsmart in Chino where I have a number of friends I wanted to show off the old girl to. Then I got cold feet and decided to just go directly home. Fortunately a driver didn’t let me over to the left lane in time for the turn home. Went on to Petsmart with no problems.
As luck would have it, just as I neared the Petsmart building, a car was leaving that freed 3 parking spaces next to the front door. I took two of them and shut her down.
As I was driving across the parking lot, a lady and her small boy had given me a wave. I went in to the store and invited my friends to come out to see my surprise. When I went back out the lady and her small boy were there. She was taking pictures. Said she loved the tractor. Told her about V-Day and that she should bring her son to it. Pleased to learn from her she is married to Army senior sergeant and her uncle is retired master sergeant. She asked if I could have her son sit with me on the tractor. Gave her “you bet!”. Santa Claus in farmer togs is fun. Did it a number of times yesterday.
Drove tractor down my home street and gave a quick cruise thru the city park. Had to stop before leaving park so lady passenger could take a picture. Got yet more smiles and waves from them. Backed tractor down driveway and shut her down. Gave her a pat and “Well Done old girl”.
Hitched a ride from my neighbor to the Harley lot and got my truck.
When I got home and drove into my driveway facing the tractor, I shut the motor off and just sat for a full 5 minutes enjoying the view. The light breeze was moving the flags just like they were banners made from the lightest silk. I went from item to item I had added to the tractor over the past two years and was both amazed and happy I had created something so unique.
Tuesday, May 15th was my 70th birthday. Saturday was simply the best birthday party I ever had.
I have a little souvenir from the Harley dealership I will share with you next week. I feel very confident in predicting we will have veterans and their motorcycles at V-Day this year.
David
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To: David
From: Col Jon Goldenbaum USAF (ret)
Re: FlaBob Farmall Adventure Report
Congrats on your superb performance on this highly sucessful mission. I am submitting you for the Distinguished Plowing Cross…..you have reflected great credit on the USMC, USAF, USN etc.
Great job….you are now designated Farmall Mission Commander.
Jon
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