Most of us in northern Indiana recognize the name of Bob Chase as connected with WOWO radio. For 65 years, Bob Chase was an announcer for the Komet Hockey team on WOWO radio. I had the privilege of meeting Mr. Chase -- actually that was his radio name based on his wife’s maiden name --... Continue Reading →
They Did It for Honor: Stories of American WWII Veterans is Hot Off the Press!
Wow! It’s done! My second book of World War II interviews is done! They Did It for Honor: Stories of American WWII Veterans contains 34 stories of men/women who served in every branch from 1941-1946. The war ended in 1945, but many continued serving during the occupation period in Japan and Europe. The book is... Continue Reading →
Vets Describe D-Day
D-Day. June 6, 1944. Possibly only a handful of dates in our nation’s military history are more well- known other than Pearl Harbor (December 7, 1941). D-Day was a top secret event that had been planned for months. Every branch was involved in storming the beaches of Normandy France to overcome Hitler's forces. Here are a few... 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 →
Pearl Harbor Naval Survivor Recounts December 7, 1941 — Pt 1
Today I’m posting a story from a sailor who was on the USS St Louis stationed at Pearl Harbor in December 1941. You can hear a brief account of his experience here. Thanks to Bryan Lineberry, teacher at Bellmont High School in Decatur, IN, for inviting me to meet Mr. Garrett. I’ll post a... Continue Reading →
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 →
Veteran’s Day–Opportunity to Recognize Military Service People
This week we have the official opportunity to recognize military service people! Veteran’s Day will be celebrated on Wed, November 11. Remember to thank a veteran! On a personal note, my husband will celebrate his birthday on November 10. He is retired with 21 years of service in the Air Force, Grissom Air Reserve Base ... Continue Reading →
Opportunity to Meet/Honor WWII Vets!
A big FREE event is coming up one week from today for all of you military supporters/ history lovers around Fort Wayne! On November 1, starting at 2pm at the Fort Wayne History Center, I will talk about my project of interviewing World War II vets as part of the George Mather lecture series. ... Continue Reading →
Bluffton Street Fair, Speaking Engagements Inform about WWII Vets
Whew! It’s been quite a week of promoting World War II veterans! Last week my husband John & I met hundreds (thousands?) of people as we manned our booth at the Bluffton Street Fair. It was great fun with lots of opportunities to tell people about the 100 World War II vets I’ve interviewed and... Continue Reading →
Spreading the Word about WWII Vets
Last week was a busy, fruitful week for spreading the word about honoring our nation’s World War II vets! Not one, not two, but three speaking engagements! One was even on TV! That’s a trifecta for this small town girl who enrolled in Toastmasters to learn how to speak to a group! On Sunday August... Continue Reading →