Today is my husband Walt's birthday.Walt is a naturalized citizen, who served in the U. S. Air Force, and spent a year in Vietnam. The year from Jan 1970 to Jan 1971 was a long time for us both--and for our baby daughter Julie. When he left for Vietnam she was two months old, and when he returned she was already talking and walking--and running.
In honor of Walt's birthday, and since yesterday was Fourth of July, I thought it would be fitting to give away an autographed copy of A Cup of Comfort for Military Families, which includes "Welcome Home," a true story about Walt.
To be entered in the giveaway, leave a comment or a few words about someone you know in the military or who has served or just a thank you to our troops between now and July 11. Must be a legal resident of the US and be living in the United States--or have an APO or equivalent mailing address for anyone serving in the military outside the USA.
One winner will be selected at random. Winner's name will be announced on July 12.
Bonus entry if you are a follower of my blog or if you post about the giveaway on your blog--just let me know in your comments.
Good luck, and, Happy Birthday, Walt!
I have a friend whose husband served and went to Vietnam. He refuses to say anything about that period of his life.
ReplyDeleteOur veterans--no matter from what "war" or what era, deserve our endless respect, gratitude and admiration.
Hi Donna! Your husband becoming a citizen and serving in our military is a very unique story. My family has had many men serve: My Grandpa Lewellen, my dad, and his three brothers...all in WWII. They all made it home. My mother's first husband was killed in WWII. My son, Scott, was in the Army for 6 years (I think!) He served at The Pentagon for some of it. A cousin of mine was in Vietnam and made it home. And last but not least...my ex was a Lifer in the Army! :) **Don't include me in the drawing, because I think I already have that book! I just wanted to share this info.
ReplyDeleteHi Sioux,
ReplyDeleteAmen!
Donna
Hi Becky,
ReplyDeleteWow! That is a fine military family tradition.
Donna
Happy birthday, Walt! I've already won a copy of your book, but I wanted to say thanks to Walt! And many happy returns!
ReplyDeleteJust started following you, love the background of your blog. And my partner's mom's birthday is today too! Growing up she thought that the fireworks on the Fourth were all for her!
ReplyDeleteAs for the military friends and family I know, too many to list here, instead I'll say a HUGE THANK YOU. Those who serve help freedom ring.
Hi Cathy,
ReplyDeleteThanks. So far it's been a great day!
Hi Conda,
Welcome. Well said.
Donna V.
Happy Birthday to Walt! :)
ReplyDeleteI don't know any military/military families personally but my husband and I participated in a program where you could send a care box full of stuff to a soldier and/or a troop. We were glad to show our appreciation, even if it was just in that small way. :)
My stepson did three tours in Iraq as an Army National Guard sergeant in charge of a bomb-sweeping squad. He liked it while he was doing it, because he said over there he was important, with a crucial job to do. Now that he's back, he frets over the number of friends he lost in action.
ReplyDeleteDon't enter me in the drawing. I won the last one, and don't want to be greedy.
Hi Donna - Please tell Walt happy birthday! And "Thank you for serving." God bless him.
ReplyDeleteMy father-in-law served in the USAF for 20 years and retired a Colonel (he was a flight surgeon for years & also hospital commander). Whenever anyone thanks him for his service, he always says, humbly, "Well, I enjoyed it so much." And he really did. He served right after WWII and through Viet Nam. He's one of the kindest, most generous souls I know, and I'm proud that he's my dad-in-law. :)
Happy Birthday to Walt. One of my student's dad had to grow a full beard in Afghanistan. When his mama showed him the picture she asked what he noticed. The little boy said, "Daddy's happy smile." He is now so happy because his dad just returned home last week.
ReplyDeleteHappy Birthday, Walt. My mother was born on the 4th of July. My dad and my husband were in the military. Dad served toward the end of WWII and my husband was in the Navy during the Vietnam conflict.
ReplyDeleteHi Madeline,
ReplyDeleteWhat a kind and generous gift. I'm certain the troops appreciated receiving your care package.
Hi Val,
Wow! Your step-son should be proud. I'm grateful to him for his service. It is so sad how many troops have lost their lives fighting for our freedom.
Hi Lisa,
Your father-in-law sounds like a wonderful person. You should be proud of him!
Hi Linda,
What a great story! Isn't it wonderful how children have the ability to see through the distractions to what is important.
Hi Janet,
We must be of the same generation. My dad served in World War II, and my husband and my brother in Vietnam. Walt int he Air Force, and my brother Jimmy in the Army.
Thanks to everyone for sharing their thoughts and memories about those who serve us.
Donna
Happy birthday to Walt! My mother's birthday was the 4th, too. And my father was a marine in WWII. Congratulations on your Cup of Comfort story!
ReplyDeleteHi Tammy,
ReplyDeleteThanks, and a belated happy birthday to your mom.
Wow! You dad was a Marine? My dad was in the Army, and he was tough as nails, but very loving. I bet having a Marine for a father was a wonderful experience, to.
Donna
A belated happy birthday to Walt! What a terrific topic for July 5!
ReplyDeletePat
www.critteralley.blogspot.com
Hi Pat,
ReplyDeleteThanks!
Donna
Belated Happy Birthday to Walt. My husband served as a Marine, fortunately he didn't have to go to Vietnam although it was going on when he was in. My first husband served in Vietnam. My children's half brother is in the Army now. I have many Uncle's both on my dad and mom's side of the family that served in WWII and Korean War. Two friends have sons that served recently. My brother-in-law served in the Navy. And my Aunt was a "Rosie the Riveter" I'm probably forgetting someone, but I'm grateful for them all!
ReplyDeleteHi Lynn,
ReplyDeleteThanks. Wow! You have a lot of connections to the military. It would be great to read about some of your aunt's experiences as a "Rosie the Riveter."
Donna