Buddy Stewart | From Navy veteran to bagpiper

The sea captivated him at an early age and Buddy knew the United States Navy was for him. He was stationed in the bridge, steering the ship and assisting in navigation. With what some would call luck - and the grace of the Navy electing not to send him despite his voluntary offer to go, he sailed the seas of the Mediterranean instead around Vietnam. He didn't see war despite volunteering and served faithfully and loyally.

After the service he fell in the love with the bagpipes and began the arduous journey of learning the challenging instrument. Today, he still plays and performs Amazing Grace during veteran funeral ceremonies in Central Oregon. "It's an honor to play for my fellow veterans," he says.