Paul Rider of Fort Wayne is an interviewer’s dream. He could recite his story during World War II in clear fashion, had a scrapbook full of memories, a diary and many photos – and a story that had a peaceful resolution decades after the war. Remember to thank a veteran today for his/her service... Continue Reading →
Marine felt “lucky to make it out alive” from Vietnam, Cuban Missile Crisis
At this site I mostly post stories I’ve written from interviews with World War II vets. Many people think those are the only vets I interview. Due to my association with another military-related publication, I have interviewed dozens of vets of all eras/branches, including Korean War, Vietnam War, post-911 and everything in between. This publication... Continue Reading →
“Fear Has an Odor”
One of the strongest quotes I was ever given during an interview was by a World War II veteran was by Simeon Hain, Naval Aviator in the Pacific. “Fear has an odor,” he said. “It permeates your clothes and stinks. After getting back from a mission, I couldn’t wait to take a shower.” In honor... Continue Reading →
Coast Guard Seaman Sailed on USS Wakefield
James ‘Jim’ Joseph Meyer was my first introduction to a member of the US Coast Guard. It's hard to find Coast Guard members in the Midwest! I've since interviewed two others who served during WWII. I salute all of our branches and thank each vet for his/her service! To hear Jim Meyer talk briefly about... Continue Reading →
B-29 Gunner Flew 33 Missions; Met FDR
“For more than a year it was a steady routine of dropping bombs and encountering enemy fighters and heavy accurate flak,” he said. His longest mission to Nagoya lasted 18 hours. During the war, Bates flew 33 missions over Japan in B29s.
WWII Seaman Al LeFevra Served Aboard USS Gemsbok in South Pacific
“From everyday small feats to undeniably heroic efforts, the accomplishments and achievements of America’s Navy are vast and significant. Since its birth on October 13, 1775, the Navy has been involved with more than ten major wars and countless battles in the effort to bring security, democracy and prosperity to the American people and to... Continue Reading →
Tributes to WWII Vets Mankey, Beitler
Two World War II vets from my book have passed away recently. Carl Mankey, one of the few World War II Marines I’ve interviewed and one of the 28 WWII vets whose stories are featured in my book, died on April 6, 2016. Here is a portion of his story: In June 22, 1944, Marine... Continue Reading →
Jeannette & Bruce Kenline Serving God and Country
This story is the result of interviews with a couple I met while working at a retirement home. They were the first couple I had met who had both served in the military. I admire them both. I didn't have photos of them in uniform but the helmet is pretty awesome! ******* Jeannette and Bruce Kenline... Continue Reading →
The Soldier who was Asked Not to Serve
Today I’m honoring a World War II Army medic who was born 94 years ago this week. A friend recommended I talk with him a few years ago and am I glad to have done so! What a story! I wrote this for a military publication I write for. It is commitment to his country... Continue Reading →
Funeral of a Soldier
After 3 weeks of searching for family to claim Mr. Beavers’ body for burial, no one came forward. The Allen County coroner finally gave up. Thankfully, a local funeral home offered to conduct a funeral for Mr. Beavers and invited the public to attend to show their respect for him and his service. Estimates of possibly (I'd say probably) more than 1,000 people – many from out of state—were there.