Screenshot of John Wayne from the film Operation Pacific (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

June 11, 1979 The world lost a legend, a man I would add to the classic few. He was born Marion Robert Morrison but the world knew him as John Wayne or Duke.

Some would dispute his ability as an actor, he made dozens of movies but only received one Oscar as best actor in True Grit. I don’t think anyone though can dispute he was successful.  He was successful because of the character he played, that swagger, and the scrupled man’s man who expected the most, and brought it out amongst others.

These were the movies that families could watch together, there was enough action in them that guys would watch them,  but no swearing. There was usually humor, and even a moral to be learned in the stories weaved by Duke. He stood for honor, and justice and didn’t back down.

“I won’t be wronged, I won’t be insulted, and I won’t be laid a hand on. I don’t do these things to other people, and I require the same from them.”  – The Shootist (1976)

I enjoyed his movies, and wish I could have met him, wish that I could have gone fishing with him and I am not alone. Whether John Wayne played a pilot, a sheriff, a cop or a cowboy ~ you always got John Wayne.

“Now you understand. Anything goes wrong, anything at all… your fault, my fault, nobody’s fault… it don’t matter…I’m gonna blow your head off. It’s as simple as that.” – Big Jake (1971)

I liked that and I say thanks for the memories.  You are not forgotten Duke, John Wayne, not by a long shot!

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