David A. Martin (1926 – 2008) ‘Shenandoah’

David A. Martin was a Christian gentleman, friend, WWII veteran and a resident-patient at the Carl Vinson VA Medical Center in Dublin. I was his chaplain during his years at the VA. He loved the hymns of faith, and he especially loved the folk song “Shenandoah.” We visited many times, and he was always present at the weekly music programs were I played songs of my harmonica for the veterans on the ward.

One July 11, 2008, Mr. Martin asked me, whenever the Lord called him home, if I would conduct his funeral and play a few Christian songs and “Shenandoah” during the service. I gladly consented to his request. He knew that his earthly life was running out and he was making his plans. 

On Nov. 24, 2008, the day of his funeral in Hazelhurst, Georgia, I had the honor of conducting the service for my friend and playing some songs at his request, and they were: “Near the Cross,” “Count Your Blessings” and “Shenandoah.” Additionally, and at his gravesite, I played “Amazing Grace.” 

In closing this short essay, permit me to say a little more about David A. Martin and how much he meant to this chaplain. Because of his service in WWII, he was one of my heroes for I was just a boy growing up during those war years, and he was a dedicated Christian gentleman who had sung in a Gospel quartet for many years; he always attended the weekly chapel services; he was respected by other patients and the nursing staff; and, he was always thinking of others and spoke often of his late wife. Yes, I am a better man for having known this Christian gentleman and American military veterans. 

“Shenandoah” has long been a favorite of mine, but this song now takes on a special meaning to me because of my friend David A. Martin.

Peace!