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An October, 2004 salute to World War Two veterans...
Over the weekend, Smash visited a military cemetery, a trip that inspired a worthy challenge. Could we milbloggers create tributes to those whose names he found?
It may come as a surprise to some, but the largest group of recent additions to that garden of stone - significantly more than the numbers of deaths from Iraq - were the veterans of the Second World War. But that's to be expected, as time accomplishes what the enemy could not.
And it may surprise others to discover what I did earlier this year - the WWII era vets don't leave much of a legacy on the internet. I found this out while looking for some trace of existence of one of my uncles - who flew for what's now called the United States Air Force through WWII, Korea, and Vietnam, and slipped this earthly bond this past year too. I reaffirmed it by seeking for mention of several more this weekend - worth the time, but ultimately without results.
It would be foolish to mourn their absence from this virtual world, for they live on in places more important and real. Back in October 2004 I received the following via email from a stranger - one with whom I could identify quite readily. I'm honored to be able to re-publish it today as we continue our salute to the fallen, as tribute to a man and his generation, and as salute to all those who simply served and survived and went on to lead good lives.
My father and uncles were all veterans of World War Two. Many of them stayed in the service for 30 years through Korea and Vietnam. When I received this email from Jack Spadoni I knew exectly how he felt. "I know you don't know me but I would like to ask a favor. My father just passed away. I have always felt that he was a great man and was always proud to be his son. I was wondering if you could post the following on your blog."
Absolutely Jack. And I never knew your father but I agree with you - he was a great man. One by one the lights of the WWII generation fade, and we'll never decline an opportunity to render fitting respects to such men as these.
Meet Joseph Spadoni, Lt Col,USAF, in the words of his son:
On October 15, 2004 LTC Joseph Spadoni USAF (retired) died of cancer at the age of 82. Born in 1921 in Martins Creek, Pa., he grew up during the Depression. Both his parents had passed away by the time he was 14 and he was raised by his older sister.He enlisted in the Army Air Corps. in January 1941. He helped train gunners for B-17 crews in Idaho, and ended up in Kunming, China with the 10th Air Force. Along the way, he flew across the South Atlantic, saw the pyramids of Egypt and crossed the Himalayas in a C-47. In China, he spent most of his down time helping the locals in their rice paddies. He enlisted as an Airman and was discharged with the rank of Captain.
Recalled to active duty in 1948, he served in the Strategic Air Command and was stationed on Okinawa during the Korean War. He retired in 1966 at the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. He continued in Government service for the next 15 years, working for the Defense Personnel Support Center in Philadelphia.
He moved back to Martins Creek and there was hardly a person in town who didn't know "Joe". Quick to lend a hand, he was always helping people. Whether it was electrical, plumbing, automotive, structural or landscaping, he could fix it. And if he couldn't find the part, he would make it. The original Macgyver you could say.
He was a expert shot with rifle and handgun, an avid hunter and fisherman, and had a deep appreciation of nature. He was the nicest most easy going man around, at least until he lapsed into "Colonel Mode", which would be announced by a hardy "OK men, this is what we're going to do!"
He is survived by his wife of 56 years, daughter Barbara and two sons Joe and Jack. He always stood up for what was right and never backed down from a challenge. He was a loving husband, loving father and truly a good person. I believe he was a great man. He has left this world because his work here is done.
He was my Dad and I shall love him always.
Jack D. Spadoni
2004-10-20 10:49:04
