I got this email a couple of minutes ago...my faith in Hollywood has been renewed just a little bit.
Here is a copy of a story about a Viet Nam vet and Ann-Margaret,
written by the vet's wife.
It is unique and well worth reading.
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 &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 2nd 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.
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OOPS! Sorry, well, this lady in Kansas still thanks that Vet and all the others no matter where they are.
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