Karen Brantley – University of Louisiana, Monroe, USA

Series: American History, Culture and Literature

A generation of men who fought for our freedom looks back at their lives, some with melancholy, some with unforgotten energy, and others with reluctance. World War II means something different to each man who served, yet a common and tightly woven thread binds their attitude and sense of patriotism.

As these heroes who served on many different levels face an inevitable end, it seems a shame to let their memories of World War II die with them, unchronicled and forgotten. Not only do the men interviewed have their personal remembrances to share about that war, but their philosophies about life give insight to their character and the experiences that shaped their lives.

In my quest to document my father’s stories of World War II, and also those of others, I took a seemingly endless ride on an emotional roller coaster. With each dear man, I found myself listening and responding much as I did when my own father– thoughtful, loving, brave and successful. Memories of conversations with my own father flooded back time after time as I sought the company and stories of these courageous and endearing veterans of World War II. I left each interview with my heart full of pride and respect for such men as these.

The main consideration is this: When someone speaks to you, listen. Listen with your heart and soul. And memorize not only their words, but their facial expressions and the feelings conveyed in their eyes. Then forever you are bound to one another, and to another time gone by.