Capturing Military Stories One Veteran at a Time
Happy 4th of July! This day means so much to the American public. It is the day we celebrate our country’s freedoms – and they are many! I learn to appreciate them more each year. These photos came to me courtesy of World War II veteran Mark Flanagan. It always reminds me of how all... Continue Reading →
This is an excerpt of my story of Dr. Justin Arata's military service -- both as a physician during WWII and later collecting data after the atomic bomb tests at Bikini Atoll. ... For Dr. Justin Arata of Fort Wayne, the most significant part of serving in the Navy during World War II occurred... Continue Reading →
As a continuation of March as Women’s History Month today I’m featuring Marceil Saalfrank Harris. During World War II, Marceil enlisted as a member of the WAVES, which is an acronym for Women Accepted for Volunteer Emergency Service. It was the women's branch of the United States Naval Reserve during World War II. Of the 16 million people... Continue Reading →
In honor of African American History Month this February, I pay tribute to the struggles and achievements of the people and events that have shaped our nation. Today I share the story of Vaughan Whitworth of Los Angeles, California. Whitworth fought as part of the 4th Marine Division, 7th fleet, 51st and 52nd Battalion in... Continue Reading →
This post honors the World War II veterans I’ve interviewed who were deceased in 2019. Each death is a great loss for our nation. For those included in books I’ve published the titles are included. Thanks to all of these men and women who served our country in its time of great need. Photos follow... Continue Reading →
Caption: World War II Navy veteran Alvin Ping (left, above with WWII vet Bill Smith) at 2018 Book Launch for Book 3 of WWII Legacies: We Gave Our Best: American WWII Veterans Tell Their Stories) Today we’re celebrating a 100th birthday! No, it’s not for me—I’ve a ways to go yet. Mr. Alvin Ping recently reached... Continue Reading →
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 →
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 →
“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 →
One aspect of my book launch with World War II veterans is how it can build character and patriotism, especially in students. I never would have thought patriotism -- love for one's country and those who defend it -- would have come under attack as it has in recent years. These two little guys attended... Continue Reading →
