Richard, (my husband) never really talked a lot about his time in Viet Nam, other than his having once been shot by a sniper. He did had a rather
grainy, 8 x 10 black and white photo he had taken at a USO show of Ann Margaret, 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.
(Unknown writer)
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