"Richard, (my husband), never really talked a lot about his time in Vietnam other than he had
been shot by a sniper. However, he had a rather grainy, 8x10 black & 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 around 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 2nd 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 was 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.
Richard, like many others, came home to people who spit on him and shouted ugly things at
him. 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.
If you'd like to pass on this story, feel free to do so. Perhaps it will help others
to become aware of how important it is to acknowledge the contribution our service people.
LET US NEVER FORGET !!!!
