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 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.
![[]](images/margret.jpg)
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 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.
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 make.
Don't be too busy today...
Share this inspiring message with friends and family.
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