Veteran's 'Taps' performances on bugle conjure deep feelings on Galveston Strand

GALVESTON, TX (KTRK) -- From the Gulf waves to the bustle of the Galveston Strand, every night at dusk Guy Taylor appears on the balcony. He is a long way from his Korean War days.

"In the Marine Corp. it just signifies the end of the day," said Taylor.

It' a simple idea, yet such a reverent thought. Taylor, 83, has been playing Taps on his bugle here for years.

"I still get chill bumps and I do it 200, 300 times a year," said Taylor.

Simple notes that hang in the island air and stir that special place in the heart.

"There's just something special about those simple notes," said Karla Bruton Smith. "It will bring tears to your eyes. It's amazing."

However, what would the service of a veteran be without a brotherhood bond? Galveston County Precinct One Constable Clint Wayne Brown noticed something special was happening.

"You'll see them cry and it means a lot to them. We've been there, we know what it's like," said Brown.

Brown wanted everyone to stand up and pay attention.

"If you're in uniform, you salute, and if you're not, you put your hand across your heart and pay respect," said Brown.

Some now expect it but for others, it's a surprising footnote to the day.

"He touches your heart with that. All my customers come outside to pay respect," said Francisco "Paco" Vargas, a nearby business owner.

Smith captured the attention of tens of thousands by placing the video tribute on Facebook.

"His heart is one of generosity, working for others. He said he did this for those who have fallen and everyone who has served and I thought, how beautiful," said Smith.

As sure as the sun sets, Taylor says he'll be playing on the Strand until his final note.

"One of these days somebody will be blowing Taps for me," said Taylor.