-They Called Him "SHELLY"

But, I knew him as Eric, Eric Shellenberger that is. A Navy SEAL, A Soldier, a Son , A Brother, and a Great Friend. I met this fine gentleman through his brother Marc who worked for me many years ago. We became friends, very good friends. I only saw him a few times a year if I was lucky. Eric always had a couple of things on his mind when he would return home. First things first, he would go see his mom like any good son would do. That is what he did. But, as told by his friends and my new Navy SEAL buddies, he also had something else on his mind, and that was to come to Casey's, my work. Eric would always pay his respects by coming to say "Hi" to my mother. She was so proud of Eric, ever since that day she saw him in his Marine uniform. She thought the highest of him.

Then, Eric would come to see me. We would talk about everything from sports, his brothers Marky & Jared's (His younger Brother who I got to know over the years) behavior, UNC college hoops, Eagles, Phillies, and he would always have time to bust my chops about Notre Dame. I knew what he did for a living. We never talk about that. We would talk about partying all over the world, Hawaii, San Diego, or just finding the neon lights at home. Eric was always having a good time when I got to see him. The only time we ever talk about one of his tour's was when he got sent over to the Middle East. Eric said he had done nothing but play beach volleyball. I knew different but didn't care. I knew he was a hero. Eric was extraordinary in my eyes. He was a brother to me as were his two brothers Marky and Jared.

Then, Fate took over. One Thursday afternoon I was startled by the worst text message of my life. I could not believe what I was reading, hoping it was a cruel joke. I knew it wasn't. My Friend, Eric, was gone. I did not want to believe it. It turns out that is was a horrible truth.

People, myself included, think the job that gentlemen like Eric do is incredible. Navy SEALS are Warriors with incredible skill and courage. I had the chance to meet some of the men. They speak of "The Team". A "Team" like none other that we know. This "TEAM" puts their lives on the line for us and Our Country. They have no worries, no doubts. They do the job because they WANT TO, and They LOVE IT! They are a unique family of people and personalities.

In true Eric fashion, one of the worst weeks of my life got turned around on a Tuesday night in May. When my friend Marky showed up with some of Eric's Navy SEAL family. They came in because this is what Eric had done when he came home. So, they followed Eric's lead. Night after night from Tuesday through Sunday these fine gentelmen who protect Our Country came in to mourn Eric's passing. The Mourning somehow got turned around though? It became a celebration of the man himself, Eric. A celebration like none other in the history of Casey's Place. Just as Eric would have wanted it.

These fine men, The SEALS, became my friends in a the few days that I got to meet them. It was an Honor. I could have not have been any prouder.

So raise up your hands, Put a Crown Royal and whatever you desire soda, ice or just a straight shooter and throw your straws on the ground for one of my personal hero's.....Eric Shellenberger....This one's for "SHELLY"

I know he's guarding the Gates of Heaven for us now!!!!

I'll miss you Eric.

Jimmy Casey III