September 30, 1982... with Reagan

[Steelharp]

I remember this; what a great, hi point of my life. Such a gentleman...

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j_fTlKoQJ54#t=11

[hipower]

Were you there?

[Steelharp]

I was. I was playing steel guitar. It was us and Burt Bacharach.

 

At rehearsal that afternoon, while we were on stage in the lawn, the motorcade pulled up to the White House. The SS guys got out on the house side of the cars, But Reagan got out on our side, and started walking toward us. The SS guys scrambled, diving over cars and running around them to catch up with him. It was pretty funny.

 

As he approached the stage, the steps were on stage left, where I was the guy on the end. He came up the steps, extended his hand toward me, and said, "Hello, son, I'm Ronald Reagan." (Like I didn't know who he was!!) I stood, and stammered something like, "Mr. President, I'm Mike Douchette. It's an honor to meet you, sir." He stayed with me a few minutes, as he did with each of us, and he asked about what that was I was playing. We talked steel guitar for a brief time. He was so genuine and friendly.

 

I still have the Christmas cards I received every year after that.

[Ugly]

Great story and experience! He was an admirable man that's for sure. I never got to meet the man but did line the street during his funeral. I also share the same birthday, a couple of years off though. Thanks for sharing and posting!

[hipower]

That's great. Michael. I must say I'm rather envious of the people you've met and played with during your career. You truly have been a witness to history.

[Steelharp]

I just... was doing my job. I never thought about it in those terms. Still don't...

[Joe357]

Now his head will not fit through the door at the store and we will have to call him Sir Douchette or your Grace.
Just kidding Mike ;) .

I remember telling Eddy one day, "when he dies 1000 people will say WHO" He didn't talk to me for a week.

I still like the joke about the Bass player funeral. I think I will have two if my wife and daughter comes. Daughter says she will come if food is served :)

It is amazing how many people you meet playing music.

[Steelharp]

Joe, that's funny!! Typical picker's kid... lol