Another morning with the typical roosters crow and serenade.  Today was a special morning as we gathered for a somber occasion and a tradition that goes back to the earliest days of the Trailblazers.  On Wednesday morning an “Empty Saddles” memorial service is held to remember the members who have passed away since our last Trek.  Whether you are an “Old Guard”, or a first year guest, it is an emotional moment.  The Words to the chorus “Empty Saddles” by Bing Crosby have new meaning since I heard it sung by Dan Steadman for the first time in 2001.

Empty saddles in the old corral,
Where do ya ride tonight?
Are ya roundin’ up the dogies,
The strays of long ago,
Are ya on the trail of buffalo?
Empty saddles in the old corral,
Where do ya ride tonight?
Are there rustlers on the border,
Or a band of Navajo
Are ya headin’ for the Alamo?
Empty guns covered with rust
Where do ya talk tonight?
Empty boots covered with dust
Where do ya walk tonight?
Empty saddles in the old corral,
My tears would be dried tonight
If you’ll only say I’m lonely,
As ya carry my old pal
Empty saddles in the old corral

This year we remembered eight SCTB members including Richardson Camp’s own Bill Sweigert.  I wrote about his passing in a January in a column titled Farewell Old Friend.  We were extremely honored that two of his sons, James and Bill III, were able to join us and take part in this special ceremony.  In fact James created a web page with pictures that really portrays the true feelings of the morning.