I was going to take this week's blog to review (and recommend) the book I recently finished. But, today being Veteran's Day, I decided to wait on that. Today, I'd like to talk about one of the veterans I know, my Grandfather John Sturgeon.
I really don't know a whole lot about his service. I honestly didn't know he served in WWII until near the end of his life. I know that he was a radio operator in the Air Transport Command. But, really, beyond that, I know very little else.
Instead, I'd like to talk about the man himself. He was a Baptist minister, who traveled from church to church. He was a fixer. A struggling church would bring him in, he'd build it up, & move on to the next. He was also a fixer of just about anything else you could think of. He was a tinkerer of immense proportions. Nothing was ever sent out for repairs. He could fix it. Even if he didn't know exactly what he was doing, he would stay with it until he figured it out. Which he always did. Back in the 80s, we had an Apple IIc computer (pre-Macintosh). One day it up & died. We bought a new computer & my grandpa decided it he would take the IIc. He wanted a new toy to "tinker" around with. Well, this man, with no previous knowledge of computers, had that thing up & running within the next 6 months. He was also the kindest, most patient man you could meet. Always volunteering his time to whomever needed it. Always a good & encouraging word for all that asked. He was unable to sit still, & I believe that is what took him from us. Before he passed, he suffered a stroke. Partially paralyzing his left side. He was no longer able to do all the things that made him who he was. Growing up, whenever I would ask him how he was doing. He had one pat answer & probably the only lie he ever told me. "Terrible." But always said with that great, warm, knowing smile he had. Near the end, when I asked that question, his answer changed. He became honest with me. I never wanted to hear him lie to me more than at those times. I still miss him greatly to this very day & I don't think that will ever change.
But being that today is Veteran's day, I'd like to share with you the story of another Vet that I know. My Great Uncle Charles Sturgeon, was an Engineer & Top Turret Gunner in the 91st Bomb Group (H). He was also a POW, shot down over German occupied France. He met President Eisenhower while interned in Stalag Luft #1. But, you can read it in his own words by clicking here. Honor those that have fought for our freedoms, & remember those that gave their lives for the same.
Charles Sturgeon, Top row, far left.
