Amazing that so many Duke fans are younger (so far according to the vote) to not know him before he died. I just graduated from high school when Duke took to the final sunset so many years ago, and the same one we all will someday take ourselves. I was crushed by his death, and didn't realize at the time that he was 72 (he had a full life).
I guess without the internet (or even a home computer), as well as cable (yes, I know there was cable back then, but with very little stations around the country), or the information age, we didn't get as much news as we do today, so fast. Especially Duke being so sick. I do recall that we (my friends) were pulling for Duke to make his birthday, and also knew that Maureen O'Hara, Elizabeth Taylor and others were trying to get the U.S. Congress to pass a resolution to mark John Wayne a true American. The Congress passed the resolution and he received it in the hospital. Duke's comments were that he was truly honored to receive such a gift from the American people (not a direct quote). He died days later. I was 18 at the time and became an authentic Duke fan since.
I will say that he has made an impact in my life with his movies, and personal life. I am amazed that he is still very popular today; no, I take that back, I am not surprise that he is. He is what makes America great, and he does that with his movies and his actions. Duke is a role model to all; young and old; men, and women; boys and girls. Even if you are not a fan, you can't help know that Duke was a very authentic man. I'm not surprise that there are people around the world who also liked Duke. He paints a true picture of what America is.
It's our job (us Americans) to continue what Duke left behind. We are to continue to show everyone around the world what America is and what we stand for. Thanks Duke for your legacy.
Hondo B)
P.S. Hey Bill, Wish you could have a legacy like that?