Just a message circulating that has meaning

**Wesley** · 07-02-2008, 10:12 AM

Just an email I saw that has no link author unknown, but carries a strong message that I share:

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'clockfor 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 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 were 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 Military,' 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 Vietnam 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.
On behalf of those who DO appreciate all that you did for us, thank you to each of you who receive this message who have served or are serving our country in the armed services or any other service.

PLEASE, STAND IN FRONT OF OR BEHIND OUR TROOPS BUT ALWAYS STAND WITH THEM.
They served in honor so our country to be FREE and everyone could enjoy the Free USA

**Cyclonesrule91** · 07-02-2008, 10:18 AM

That's awesome and I agree with you......rep for you.

**Mr Janny** · 07-02-2008, 10:21 AM

"Get me some good low-angle
stuff. Don't make
it too obvious."

**theshadow** · 07-02-2008, 10:26 AM

Can't beat a FMJ reference.

**Cy Hard** · 07-02-2008, 10:26 AM

Originally Posted by jdewaard

"Get me some good low-angle
stuff. Don't make
it too obvious."

..."butI wanna see fur and early morning dew."

**jdoggivjc** · 07-02-2008, 10:33 AM

I've read that story before - it's an outstanding one. And the cool thing is Snopes confirms it...

http://www.snopes.com/politics/military/margret.asp

Certainly a different attitude of our Vietnam vets than Jane Fonda has...