Years ago I went to an inspirational speech by a man I have since learned was on the beginning of his Vietnam story tour. I was wearing a POW bracelet at the time. His words have since influenced my thoughts and actions. Captain Charlie Plumb.
And let me back up a bit…Mrs. Hamilton.
The local librarian steered me into historical fiction. She saw my sister and I every weekend, for the most part, and aside from the dime she gave “Pindy” to buy her a donut, she navigated me to the adult literature section. She knew and understood I craved more. I read biographies and autobiographies. When I heard Captain Plumb speak, I had an individual bringing horrific history to life. Since then, my heart was and has always been drawn to stories of those who survived. I think about odd stuff…like, what do I know by memory that could sustain me in a prison? Could I recall anything worthy? I think about the scraps I discard that prisoners and others died for lack of. Cherishing. Even in the small, cherish. I am happy to have those thoughts.
So, Charlie Plumb….I’m not sure how you came to mind today? And thank you and everyone else who served us.