Monday, April 14, 2014

Victory Lap and Fare-thee-well

This was a beautiful morning to take one last hike in the park.  I've been walking these trails for eight years now, usually with my camera and always on the lookout for the things that make this place so special.

You'd think that after so many years I'd have run out of special moments here, but every walk upon the battlefield brings something new - today it was the frogs singing from the Roulette pond.  Every day something new, every day another view.  I never know what to expect when I mount the steps to the observation room - the valley, Elk Ridge, and South Mountain never look the same way twice.  I'll miss giving programs in that room with visitors in front of me and that magnificent view behind me.

I've had many wonderful experiences here.

I met, proposed to, and married my wife here.

I've made lasting friendships here.

I've learned so much here.

And some day, I hope to return here.

Best wishes, from just north of Sharpsburg,

Ranger Mannie

19 comments:

Jeff said...

As you make another change in your life, I just want to tell you I enjoy your posts. They are honest and full of your enthusiasm. I look forward to future posts about Frederick Douglas and your other DC adventures. Thanks for sharing.

patriotblue1 said...

I wish you well Mannie. As the first Civil War battlefield I ever visited, Antietam has always been a special place for me. Our few moments shared in conversation and friendship during Michigan Day in 2012 will always be a highlight. You still inspire me.

Mike Bunkermeister Creek said...

Thank you for your service Ranger Mannie. I know your new employer will benefit greatly from your wisdom and your humor.
Bunkermeister

Anonymous said...

Hoping to get the internship Mannie and maybe working together. You seem like a very eclectic dude. ;)

Anonymous said...

ANB is losing their only QT Ranger Mannie!! Hee Hee

Anonymous said...

Happy Easter Ranger QT!! :)

Anonymous said...

Do you have your commuter route figured out Mannie?

Mannie Gentile said...

Anonymous,
Yes, I take the MARC from Brunswick to Union Station, get on the Metro red line for two stops, transfer to the green line for five stops, get on the B2 bus at the Anacostia station and go ten blocks to Frederick Douglass.

Anonymous said...

Wow, you better leave early.

Anonymous said...

How's that commute?

Anonymous said...

Keep on Trucking Dude!!

scouter573 said...

While I will return to the Battlefield for another visit, I will add the Douglass house to my list for a visit.

Chris Evans said...

Always enjoyed your postings about Antietam.

Look forward to your postings on the Douglass house and what that is like. Also, your visits to other Civil War sites and their Vistor Centers.

Chris

Anonymous said...

Love to read a groovy posting from the Frederick Douglas National Historic Site you QT Ranger.

Anonymous said...

How's that 6 hour commute working out for you Ranger Mannie?

Anonymous said...

Still making the 6 hour commute Ranger Mannie?

Mannie Gentile said...

Well, the commute is what it is. No matter how you slice it its a six hour ordeal. Audio books makes it easier. I'm just buying time until I can find something permanent. Hope springs eternal.

Anonymous said...

You must be exhausted all the time. Your wife must feel neglected.

Anonymous said...

Are you still working for the NPS Ranger Mannie? What's new with your job prospects? Still commuting 6 hrs. a day? :)