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This is a timely thread for me to read, in fact, I may use some quotes from this.

I have been, the past couple of days, working on a column about a fishing buddy who died Memorial Day, a WWII hero, Silver Star recipient and 81st Wildcat Division (U.S. Army) sharpshooter, who stormed Angaur Island as part of Operation Stalemate II, a pivotal (sp), but lesser known, battle in WWII.

I usually can knock out a column in 30 minutes (I don’t write for military journals, but hunting/fishing publications), but this one is tough, because it is personal, about someone I loved. Also I have to connect the topic (fishing/hunting) with a LOT of history. I have NEVER had such difficulty writing something as I have this, because there are SO many stories of honor and bravery, it’s so hard to put any of them away and move on.

And, I have been reading more than writing. I have had an extensive lesson in WWII history the past few days.

I am astounded at the men who faced such odds, both those who did and didn’t return home. GOP _Raider, there are endless stories of the ordinary, 5’7” (and shorter, like my friend) men who left their homes a child, really, and showed such courage, became heros not by choice, but because they had no choice.

Outstanding read, pissant, and thanks so much for posting this.

To top it off, I’m a “chick,” and have been known to cry during a “Bonanza” episode, so imagine trying to write about experiences I can’t fanthom, and doing it through a stream of tears, especially when I think about the sweet little man I used to fish with climbing through a jungle dodging bullets.

Thanks again pissant.