.50 BMG B.S.

[diggler1833]

My Dad was a machine gunner in the S. Pacific WWII. He would never talk about it except for some funny anecdotes.(bouncing bullets off crocks with a tommy-gun or running out of the crapper to dive in a hole during incoming mortar fire) Finally, I pried a few gory details out of him. Damn…….Still he never ever talked about the folks he’d killed. Not one word.

I still can’t believe this kind, generous, strong man that I knew as my father, saw and did those things. I can’t believe he just wasn’t damaged goods after that.

He had two families, 12 kids, lived to 94, died peacefully in his bed.

I miss you every day Dad.

^ A true hero.

The story very much reminds me of my grandfather who served on a destroyer escort in the pacific (Fletcher class). Was in basically every naval battle during the entire island hopping campaign. The only time he ever opened up was when I was visiting before going to recruit training for the Marines. Told me a few stories, and I got to look through his photo album.

He always went to bed after 3-4 strong drinks on the rocks. Never did he lose his temper or show signs of aggression to his family. It was only after my career did I recognize his signs of PTSD.

Came home after the war and raised a family, while being a college professor.

He was only about 5'4", but he was a mountain of a man.

 

[232593]

.50 BMG retardation