I need your help in honoring a WWII veteran...

[PALADIN85020]

I took Dick to lunch today, and I can tell you all that he is really looking forward to the DC trip. The last time he was there was just going through on a train during WWII, so it should be a terrific treat to see the WWII memorial which is dedicated to him and all who served in that pivotal time in our history.

I sure hope each and every one who reads this thread will take the time to send Dick a letter thanking him for his service. He took the time today to thank me for mine (Army officer assigned to atomic weapons training, logistics and security stateside during the Cuban missile crisis) - which I consider to be insignificant compared to his. I told him I appreciated that he was a combat veteran. He told me that combat was no sweat - the secret was in surviving. I told him back that he was one of the fortunate few, and that I would always admire him for his courage of going in harm's way for his country. So very few do so today.

Again, I hope you all will deluge him with cards and letters. He's a truly humble man who helped the U.S. through a very trying time, and he deserves accolades. There are not many like him left.

John

 

[jlrhiner]

I'm in, John.

And I also took the liberty of posting it to Facebook.

 

[RobertJ.]

You're hoping for at least 100? I'd be willing to bet you get just a few more than that!

I'm in, too!

 

[3dots]

bump to top

 

[klondike]

I would hope that Dick is also writing or at least recording his story for future generations to both enjoy and learn from. Some of the best reminiscences that I have read involve little in the way of the few minutes of the chaos of combat but more in how a dumb farm kid grows up fast. Please encourage the story telling.....and thanks.

 

[BaaBaa]

Done. Will go into the postal office tomorrow.

My uncle was a WW II POW, his recorded story is riveting and will (upon his death) be available to everyone as part of the Library of Congress Veterans Stories collection.

Never forget!

 

[PALADIN85020]

This will be just a note to keep those letters flowing! Col. Dick Plowden is an humble man; reluctant to be acknowledged as the hero he is and one of America's "greatest generation." You know what? I want to see his eyes light up when he reads the more than 100 letters I want for him on the return flight from DC to Phoenix. He needs to KNOW his bravery and his sacrifices have been appreciated. If you've ever wanted to say "Thanks for your service" to a WWII combat veteran, but haven't had the opportunity because there aren't that many left, then this is your opportunity. Do this. You will know that you did a good thing, the right thing. It's a repayment in small measure for a life willingly spent to help us all keep free from tyranny.

On a sad note, Dick lost his wife a couple of years ago. They were married right after the war. It took a lot out of him, as they were inseparable sweethearts. Her pictures are prominent in his home. The Honor Flight and your letters will be an incredible boost to his morale. The details and address to send your letter are in the OP. I will be grateful to you, and I know Dick will be also when he receives your letter.

Again, many thanks to all of you.

John

 

[PALADIN85020]

If you haven't sent a letter (per the OP), please take this opportunity to do so! Information on this tribute to Col. Dick Plowden has gone viral all over the country, and I'm determined to see that he gets a duffel bag full of mail on his Honor Flight return flight. Please - you may never get another opportunity to thank at least one of the genuine WWII heroes before they all die out.

I personally want to thank all who have responded. It would be a nice weekend thing to do if you haven't done it yet! I'm counting on you!

All the best,
John

 

[CustomChevyGuy]

I'll definitely be writing something up for him! It'll be an honor.

 

[Isis1200L]

Count me in!

 

[PALADIN85020]

Please keep those cards and letters flowing, guys and gals! If you have already answered this call, great! Bring a few friends in on this opportunity as well - the opportunity to thank a member of the greatest generation for going in harm's way for us all and preventing our enemies from prevailing in WWII. I'm counting on you to spread the word!

Again, many thanks. I'm looking forward to seeing Dick Plowden's eyes light up when he receives a duffel-bag full of cards and letters at mail call on his return from D.C.! It will be great, and you folks will have helped make it happen.

John

 

[howiema]

John, I will send one out from the Bahhhhstun contingent.

Pete

 

[PALADIN85020]

Just a bump to the top as a reminder, if you haven't already done so, you'll need to get your letter to Col. Plowden in the mail by September 5!

And again, my sincere thanks to all who have responded.

John