WW2 Hero.
 

I took my stepmother to the Dr. today for lab work. I was sitting in the lab waiting room and started talking to an older gentleman. He was upset about no energy, several medical issues. He finally told me he was 91. I'm a history lover, so of course I asked if he served in WW2. He did! He flew Hellcat fighters for the Navy. I spent almost 40 minutes listening to his amazing stories, being shot up by a Zero and crash landing on a carrier deck, meeting his wife at Guam. Also, during the Japanese surrender he was flying above the ceremony as guard. I told him I would gladly help him on his home repairs at no charge for a few days and gave him my number. I don't think he'll call, but I hope he does....

Good for you for striking up a conversation. How many people would have just sat there absorbed in their smart phone. That generation is passing us by and so many experiences, so many stories, so much 'living' history is lost with each death.

My wife's late grandmother lived through the 'Blitz' in London as a teenager. Oh, the stories she would tell! Now I kick myself for never getting around to video taping her telling them.

Sounds like a wonderful experience. Before too long, there won't be any left who can tell these stories, so I'm glad that you and he had a chance to share his memories.

This past week I talked to a former PBM pilot who flew patrols over the south china sea, an infantryman who served in the recaputure of the Philipines and jumper from the 101 Airbourne who were nickednamed *rakkasan* by the Koreans(falling down umbrella men) known as the Angels from Hell.

I love to hear any stories they may share.

Very lucky...tis many a year since I've met or spoken to a WWII vet :-?

Nice going Armistead. Hopefully you'll get to talk to him again. :up: