The C-47: Flying Workhorse of WW II
I have heard that most war vets don't volunteer conversation of time-spent serving. They claim 'it was their duty - something that had to be done'. The author of this book, Lt. Richard Harvey, my grandfather, is no different than I suspect any WWII veteran. His response to any inquiry about his time at war always was "Now why would you want to know about that?" I also imagine that if briefly engaged, any vets stories, experiences and memories would begin to flow like lava from Mt. Vesuvius.My grandfather and I don't share similar political views - especially about our country's obligation to fight, and our religious views vary widely. I can only assume that my passion for the written word comes from a bloodline that bonds us without prejudice. I, like he, has an appreciation for the untold story. It is said that the current war in Iraq may be the first of many that will not have an historical paper trail due in part to the omnipresent use of the Internet. School textbooks will no doubt continue to adequately provide an historical view of any world event for prosperity's sake. However, will there be room for the slice of life accounts of a 22-year old soldier who is out of his element trying to make the most of a curious situation? With more than 1,200 WWII vets passing away daily, personal accounts, written or recorded by family may be the only memoirs we have to reflect upon.There are no particular heroics displayed within the pages of C-47 - The Flying Workhorse of WWII only a series of moments marked by emotion, compassion, patriotism and loyalty to an oath taken before God and country. If one takes the time to engage anyone who has experienced an event such as war, we may continue a quilt of memories from which future generations can enjoy, gather inspiration and experience a fleeting moment of the past.