Seeing that we are fast approaching Veterans’ Day, I decided to write the story of my first guitar. This happened on the island of Guam, deep in the South Pacific. I had long wanted to buy myself a guitar and, being temporarily stationed on Guam, with nothing else to do during my time off but count coconuts, the opportunity presented itself. I hastened over to the Base Exchange and purchased what I figured was a decent guitar. It was a Yamaha FG-160 and it would be my traveling companion for many years to come. Because of the many, many airmen that were stationed there (as I was), there were many opportunities to sit in with those who knew how to play. I eventually began to pick up the basics and from there began the long road to where I am today. I play one of my guitars most every evening and it brings me back to earth from a day filled with activity. I have hopes that one of my grandchildren will decide to pick up a guitar and play it, but as yet, there has been no interest. I still have that FG and it will be with me to the end. I still pull it out and play it occasionally and it brings me back to those days spent on Guam……we are both much older now and have handled the last 50 years (or so) gracefully. Happy Veterans’ Day!
Yamaha FG-160 (Purchased new in 1973 on the island of Guam)