I collect stories as some people collect rare books or stamps. Stories fascinate me. As a newspaper reporter and magazine writer, I had the (paid) opportunity to listen to people tell stories. I’ve literally heard 1,000s of oral histories, often from people who didn't believe they were interesting enough to have a story. I believe... Continue Reading →
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‘Plucky’ — My word for WWII Female Officers
Polly Woodhull Lipscomb-- Army nurse who served in England during WWII ** As a tribute to Women's History Month, I'm devoting this column to two special women I've had the privilege to interview/ write their stories. It's always a thrill to interview a WWII vet, but I especially enjoy talking to the women who served. Every... Continue Reading →
Virtual Honor Flight – Cool Way to Thank Vets
2nd Lt. Jack Humbrecht 1944 The myriad of ways people find to show support to our military are impressive. Recently I had the honor and privilege to meet a World War II veteran who participated in a ‘virtual’ Honor Flight of Northeast Indiana. During the war, Jack Humbrecht was flying a B-17 over occupied Poland... Continue Reading →
1940s Dance Fundraiser for Honor Flight
Sometimes I think I was born in the wrong decade. While I won't mention what decade I was born in, I will say that the 1940s seem more appealing the more I interview veterans who served during that time. I’ve read books about the Homefront in England and America. I’ve interviewed people who were Rosie... Continue Reading →
It’s ‘Help An Author’ Month!
It’s a new year--2019! How many times have you caught yourself writing '2018'? I admit, it’s happened to me a few times. To get through this cold (yes dreary) time, I’m creating a theme for January – Help An Author Month! Friends often ask how they can help me promote my books. They believe in... Continue Reading →
Remembering WWII Vets of 2018
On this first day of 2019 I’m honoring the World War II veterans whom I’ve interviewed and who passed away in 2018. Believe me, this is not a blog post I enjoy putting together. Some of the ones I’ve interviewed like Evelyn Brown (SPAR) have blessed me with friendship since I interviewed her a few... Continue Reading →
Happy New Year’s Eve!
I know Christmas is over, but I hope you will take 3 minutes to enjoy this gift of video of veterans featured in my books who wish you Christmas greetings. I completed it days before Christmas and sent it in my free email newsletter. Let me know if you'd like to receive it. My friend,... Continue Reading →
‘A Lot of Misery’; Soldiers Recall Christmas during WWII
As Christmas approaches, I have pulled memories related to me by vets and included in my books. During World War II, troops stationed overseas were often unable to observe Christmas celebrations. In fact, in December 1944 troops were engaged in one of the bloodiest battles of the war -- Battle of the Bulge. George Buhler... Continue Reading →
WWII Vets Enjoy Book Launch
“Spectacular!” That’s how Lucille Clarke, 98-year-old Navy WAC (pictured above) who served as a secretary during World War II, described her experience at my book launch on Nov 3 at Allen County Public Library which hosted the event. Lucille is one of 34 World War II veterans whose stories are told in my book, We... Continue Reading →
Ways to Thank American Veterans for Their Service
On this special Veteran’s Day, which coincides with the 100th anniversary of the end of WWI on November 11, 1918, we have the opportunity to show thanks to those who have served our country in the military. While a verbal affirmation is always appreciated by the veterans, I encourage you to take it one step... Continue Reading →