I took over this forum which is the Orginal CZForum, a few years ago just so I could help folks find what they needed to know or get and then stay and make friends. When I took it I had no idea what I was getting into, the only thing I knew for sure was that I wanted to make a place where folks could go for help, not be made fun of or insulted for asking a question, and especially one that did not have a single ad, banner, pop-up or anything else to confuse the reader. I have done my best to do that. It's been a lot of work, all on my own nickel, and sometimes, maybe even half the time, I think I haven't done enough or I have let the folks I wanted to, and still want to help, down in some way. I keep coming up with ideas to make this a better forum and I knew I have bigger ideas than budget and skill set will allow me to do, which frustrates the living heck out of me.
Then we get a post like yours, and everything seems to fall back into place, It's still uphill all the way but I get a renewed purpose out of it.
So far this has read like it's all about me, but maybe it is, but I'm also not known for saying things in 10 words or less. A number of things I want to say:
First off: I am truly happy you finally got your rifle, and proud that one or our members made it possible.
Second: I/we want to thank you for your Service and your Sacrifice, especially since your father died in the interim.
Third: I know I am, and I think a number of our members would like to extend our condolences to you and your family. Losing a family member is a very hard thing to deal with, and even more so when that person passed Earlier than anyone would expect.
Fourth: I personally think that your dad might well have been there with you watching your hunt, and been proud of you for both your service and your making good use of your weapon. I also think he may well have enjoyed hearing you tell me about the hunt even if it was telling him in your mind.
So that's what I wanted to say, It took a bit but I finally got to the point, Thank you for your service, and thank you for telling us about the rifle and what it meant/means to you. I hope you use it a very long time and it gets passed down through the generations.
One last thing. If your father Served then post his name, rank MOS and where and when he served. Include yourself in that and any family members that also served. I have that Board up as my way of having "The Wall" so that no member’s family or friends will be forgotten as long as this Forum lives. No one has to post there, but that's what it's for. My thanks to those that have stood in harm’s way so that the rest of us can enjoy the Freedoms so very many living and dead have worked to Preserve and Protect. and thank you for being a member here we hope it's for a very long time.