America's Soldiers

(PREFACE) Deep in the hearts of many Americans, there is a special place of honor where we record the sacrifice and great courage bestowed upon us by our soldiers and veterans- the, men and women of all military branches and rank, who have made an impact on the lives of others through their actions. The stories in this book, written by American teens, provide us with a clear understanding and rich resource of individual soldier’s roles that reside in that place of honor. In total, these stories represent every American soldier. But this is not a book about the glorification of war or expansionism on the part of one country over another. Rather, it is a collection of stories about tribute and inspiration made possible by the American Veteran Project.

You could compare these stories to a patchwork quilt of many colors. Each story represents a patch in the quilt of America, depicting an individual soldier’s contribution and how his or her life represents a commitment to their fellow citizens. America’s soldiers have given the ultimate gift: their service to protect the right to freedom of all people, which included risking life and limb. Having chosen to serve our country, they are by nature humanitarians. Through learning how soldiers have served in war and what has happened as a result of their service, we discover the true meaning of valor, dedication to duty, and strength of character.  By following the paths in their lives through these stories we can better understand the true meaning of sacrifice. As knowledge is gained through their experiences, we in turn share in their journey and are guided by the examples they have set for us.

      The inspiration for this unique collection of stories was born through a quest by my son and me to know more about my father’s role as a World War II pilot in the China- Burma- India (CBI) Theater of Operations. How was I to answer an inquisitive thirteen-year-old’s questions regarding the military role of the grandfather he never knew?   The only knowledge I had consisted of my foggy childhood memories of stories once told about a war which ended a long time ago. My father never spoke in specifics regarding his assignments or achievements in the CBI, also referred to as the Forgotten Theater. I surmise he assumed that period in his life was a duty that he and the other veterans from his generation carried out; they did not question the call for sacrifice.  Our country needed help, and they were there to give it.

      As Reid, my son, began to show an interest in aviation, the questions and the need to know more about his grandfather arrived.  My father passed away before his only grandchild was born, and all of his war memories went with him. Compared to a thief in the night which vanishes with prized possessions of an unaware victim, I too was robbed of the luxury of reviewing my father’s personal effects from the war. Many mysteries came to light with my son’s questions. It seemed ages had gone by since I had been told about those years in the CBI and the pilot, one among many who found themselves halfway around the world in exotic countries, mere teenagers or