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Veterans' stories
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The story "D-Day Plus 68 Years: Preserving Voices That Should Never Be Forgotten," June 6) reminds us that war is about people. I have had the privilege of serving as a planning consultant to the Veterans Breakfast Club, which was highlighted in the article as a storytelling venture about the war stories of veterans.
The World War II veterans, most of them well over 80, have the opportunity to recall stories that they have held in for more than 60 years, reminding them of the life-changing experiences they have been hesitant to share. The stories are emotional, recalling what they were called upon to do, sad remembering their comrades who did not come back and often humorous in recounting experiences they had upon volunteering as teenagers to protect and defend their country in foreign lands.
One veteran recalls to this day the faces of three German snipers he shot -- all about his age. These stories are vital for all of us to understand what war is really all about. It is an experience that we should not pass up -- to hear the "voices that should never be forgotten."
Breakfast meetings of the VBC are open to the public and held monthly in four area locations. I urge people to come and listen and share. Contact Todd DePastino at 412-623-9029 or email todd@veteransbreakfastclub.com to get the schedule and come to a meeting. Reservations are necessary.
MARSHALL GORDON
Mt. Lebanon
First Published June 19, 2012 12:00 am
