Veterans "oral" histories

Frank and others thanks for sharing some pics and thoughts..

I was on the ground during the Gulf and I can say we greatly appreciated the air support, both combatant and non-combatant. It really makes our jobs easier...No matter whether you are an operator, a grunt, an aviator, a supply guy or a cook, it goes without saying you have to have teamwork. You can't be an operator without the "3 B's,"....


I ended up at a local gunshow today and was surprised to get a chance to talk to a couple of WWII vets, a guy from the 29th (Blue and Grey) who took part in the landings at Normandy, and an old guy from the 2nd "SS" Das Reich. It was interesting to hear their stories and of course understand that they were on opposing sides, yet the core of their stories was very similar..young kids wishing they were home, fighting a war neither wanted, and of course trying to make do. I don't think the political ideology really comes into play as much, the first time a round impacts near you...I must say in speaking to both vets they both thought "Saving Private Ryan," did a great job of portraying war as realistically as possible. I know from my own experiences it was as close as I've seen minus the smells..

I'm giving some serious thought to doing some traveling this summer and if anyone is interested I'd consider a group effort. I actully live in the heart of the Civil War battlefields, having land that was actually an encampment and field hospital during the 1862 camapaign to take Richmond. If anyone has an interest in the Civil War I'll be happy to act as a local guide when visiting. Hope to continue this discussion.

Semper Fi,

Gregory