*New*
Ann Margaret....Woman of the
Year story
Submitted by: Frosty
Viet Nam 1966
Richard, (my husband), never
really talked a lot about his time in Viet Nam other than he had been shot by a
sniper. However, he 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 a round 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.
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.
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.
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.
Perhaps this story will help
others to become aware of how important it is to acknowledge the contribution
our service people make.
On
behalf of those who DO appreciate all that you did for us, thank you to each of
you who receive this message who have served or are serving our country in the
armed services or any other service.
IF YOU
DON'T STAND BEHIND OUR TROOPS, PLEASE, FEEL FREE TO STAND IN FRONT OF THEM!
Accused Child
Molester or Global Pop Icon
Mrs. Sy Baron
Are we living in some kind of bizzaro world. Any loss of life is
tragic, but this man was arrested more than once as an accused child molester.
Now a flip of the remote to any channel & every newscaster is singing his
praises. (pun intended). Have we all gone mad. I shall say no more lest you
figure out of whom I speak.
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