lorenww Loc: St. Petersburg

Worth Your Time to Read.

Richard, (my husband), never really talked a lot about his time in Viet Nam, other than he had been shot by a sniper. However, he had a rather grainy, 8 x 10 black and white photo he had taken at a USO show of Ann Margret with Bob Hope in the background that was one of his treasures.

A few years ago, Ann Margaret was doing a book signing at a local bookstore. Richard wanted to see if he could get her to Sign the treasured photo so he arrived at the bookstore at 12 o'clock for the 7:30 signing.

When I got there after work, the line went all the way around the bookstore, circled the parking lot, and disappeared behind a parking garage. Before her appearance, bookstore employees announced that she would sign only her book and no memorabilia would be permitted.

Richard was disappointed, but wanted to show her the photo and let her know how much those
shows meant to lonely GI's so far from home.. Ann Margaret came out looking as
beautiful as ever and, as second in line, it was soon Richard's turn.

He presented the book for her signature and then took out the photo. When he did, there were many shouts from the employees that she would not sign it. Richard said, "I understand. I just wanted her to see it."

She took one look at the photo, tears welled up in her eyes and she said, "This is one of my gentlemen from Viet Nam and I most certainly will sign his photo. I know what these men did for their country and I always have time for 'my gentlemen.'' With that, she pulled Richard across the table and planted a big kiss on him. She then made quite a to-do about the bravery of the young men she met over the years, how much she admired them, and how much she appreciated them. There weren't too many dry eyes among those close enough to hear. She then posed for pictures and acted as if he were the only one there.

That night was a turning point for him. He walked a little straighter and, for the first time in years, was proud to have been a Vet. I'll never forget Ann Margaret for her graciousness and how much that small act of kindness meant to my husband.

Later at dinner, Richard was very quiet. When I asked if he'd like to talk about it, my big, strong husband broke down in tears.. ''That's the first time anyone ever thanked
me for my time in the Army,'' he said.

I now make it a point to say 'Thank you' to every person I come across who served in our Armed Forces. Freedom does not come cheap and I am grateful for all those who have served their country.

If you'd like to pass on this story, feel free to do so. Perhaps it will help others to become aware of how important it is to acknowledge the contribution our service people make.

A True Patriot Will Pass This On. A Foreigner In This Country Might Not.

Ed Loc: Massachusetts

:thumbup: :thumbup: :thumbup:

Thanks for sharing, Very true words spoken.

God Bless

PAR4DCR Loc: A Sunny Place

One heck of a story, thanks very much for sharing :thumbup: :thumbup: :thumbup:

Don

Erv Loc: Medina Ohio

Heart warming story Loren!!!! I did 7 years over there too. Was not a good time at all. And coming home was even worst! But for me that is the past and I don't think to much about it. Thank you for sharing this!!!!!

Beowulf Loc: Aquidneck Island, RI

Thanks for posting such a heartwarming story and thanks for your service. Also, thanks for your indication that there was no link in your post; it is often annoying on UHH to have a promising post title lead to just another link that may hold little interest.

lorenww Loc: St. Petersburg

Thanks for the comments, I am a lurker here, visit everyday.
I very rarely comment on posts but enjoy them all.
I decided to contribute things I find touching or interesting.
I really appreciate the comments and expected none.
I will do my duty and post on topics I like from here on out.
Cheers to you all and keep them coming (not comments here but all of the interesting topics.)

Erv Loc: Medina Ohio

Oh come on Loren, show us your world!!! It just takes a push of a button!:):):)

TonyF Loc: Bradenton, FL

:thumbup: :thumbup: :thumbup:

firtree Loc: Florida, USA

Howdy Neighbor! Thanks for posting.

travelwp Loc: New Jersey

Yes it was. Thanks for sharing your story !!

llamb Loc: Northeast Ohio

Thanks for the great post, and an even bigger thanks for your service to your country.

~Lee

Nikocarol Loc: NM & FL

Loren, Thanks so much for posting such a moving post! I am so proud of our Vets.. Once I thank a Vet for his service and he said, I was never in a war..I said you are still a brave soldier and my hero. Thank you to all our Vets!!

grillmaster5062

Very nice story. Thanks to all who have served and continue to serve our country every day. You are all greatly appreciated.

jerryc41 Loc: Catskill Mts of NY

:thumbup:

WessoJPEG Loc: Cincinnati, Ohio

Love it, thanks a lot.