Dear Paul B,
Every Memorial Day, I remember that my Dad was a soldier storming the beaches of Normandy on 6-6-44. As a boy I would always pester him to tell me all about his experience there and in the war. He would always respond with “some day, son.” This went on and on, until his death at 59. I read many books, watched many movies (especially with “The Duke” portraying war heroes.) When I heard of “Saving Private Ryan” as an adult, I just HAD to see this movie. I had heard of WWII Veterans comments about the movies phenomenal realism about “The Longest Day.” I was the third person to purchase a ticket that day, a Friday, as the movie was released. I sat, in tears as I watched this horrific display of bravery, butchery and absolute HELL on EARTH displayed on screen. I envisioned my Dad as one of those brave soldiers fighting, and some dying for MY freedom. My Dad was injured there but fought on until he could be taken to a hospital, where he recuperated and returned to his unit. That is all that I know, but I will always remember his sacrifice for my family, and my country. Lets not wait a full year to remember our men in service, but pray for them now.
Self-Penned (Paul B)
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My Father died on 12-7-85. A veteran of WWII dying on the anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor … how coincidental, but symbolic. Leonard Brook had returned from the hospital recovering from pneumonia 3 days prior to his death. I had visited him 6 hours before, and told him that I loved him.
Paul B
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