What’s With the Bowler Hat?

My parents thought my Grandad Chapman’s hat would make a nice addition to my Pueblo Office.

My parents visited my new Pueblo office over Thanksgiving. They had a special surprise for me. One of my Grandad Chapman’s bowler hats for my empty hat stand! My Grandad Chapman passed away when I was in law school. He lived a rich, full life surrounded by family and friends. I’ve always looked up to my Grandad.

Elbert Archie Chapman’s military photo taken during World War II. Elbert was part of Patton’s 3rd Army and helped liberate much of Western Europe. Elbert fought in many battles, including the Battle of Bulge.

He was a machine gunner in Patton’s 3rd Army during World War II. I’m kind of a World War II buff because of my Grandad. He entered the European Theater shortly after D-Day and fought across France and Germany helping liberate much of Western Europe. He even fought in (and survived) the Battle of the Bulge.

My Grandad Chapman was born in Alamosa, Colorado. Alamosa is less than two hours away from my Pueblo office. What are the odds?

This particular bowler hat has the initials “E A Chapman” on the inside rim. “E A Chapman” stands for Elbert Archie Chapman. What an honor to have this hat in my office!