Ann Margaret
This is a good counter balance story to
the Jane Fonda/Vietnam
Woman Of The Year story Ann Margaret
Viet Nam 1966
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.
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 Army,"
he said.
That night was a turning point for him. He walked a little straighter and, for
the first time in year's, 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
men & women
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.