This is a story of a serviceman from long ago. He is a World War II vet, serving from 1942 to 1945. He will be 92 in September. He fought in the Battle of the Bulge as a machine gunner infantryman.
In the 30 years I have known him, he would not talk about his war experience, saying it was too hard and emotional for him.
When he had to enter an assisted-living facility, I helped him with the transition, and have been his “No. 1 Gal Friday” ever since. This has been since 2003.
He began to talk little by little about the war. His name is Robert C. Sands.
He first showed me his medals, one of which was pinned on him by Gen. Eisenhower. There was a story for each one.
He talked about walking for miles and that his feet hurt to this day.
He talked about never changing clothes for a year.
He talked about his buddies who never came home. He saw them die and he wondered why he made it home. He shed tears every time he spoke of this. “Why me?” he said.
He talked about spending Christmas in the snow-covered Ardenne Forest. He was proud that he saw Gen. Patton as he crossed the bridge at Remendan, just as he finished crossing himself.
Every Memorial Day he honors all servicemen by going to Lansdale’s Memorial Park and salutes our flag during the service, remembering the fallen soldiers and those still fighting.
He wishes he could fight but knows he cannot so he remembers always the sacrifices made and shares the same all-knowing look in his watery eyes that only fellow veterans understand.
Knowing him has changed me. I am proud to stand with him and honor the men and women who fight today and remember those who have never come home.
He/we will never forget. A thank you seems so small, but is necessary, and Bob is proud to wear his cap identifying him as a World War II vet.
He never takes it off and people salute him and acknowledge him, as we all should for brothers and sisters in arms.
Prayers are always near. His story is a remarkable one and should be told.
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