We had just passed the star-filled wall,
four thousand gold stars, each representing
one hundred lives given.

Seated in his wheelchair, Don watched
the construction of platforms for tomorrow’s
Veterans Day observance.  A young man
approached, and in a reverent manner
asked,  Were you in World War Two?
May I have your autograph? ? Tom Brokaw
was right, yours is the greatest generation.
Our debt to you is tremendous. I salute you  
and thank you for all you did.

Don had been a nurse, patched guys up
and wondered why this fellow wanted
his rank, branch of service, hometown.
Our young well wisher continued,
I’ll send you a letter.  I’m not a con man.

We moved on through the Pacific segment
where Don had served, and caught a glimpse
of the man with another stooped, gray haired
veteran, as he offered this unique gift
of thanks and remembrance.

                       Loraine Brink

On November 19th, Don received a letter from Bentley E Story
Circuit Judge, First Judicial Circuit of Arkansas
thanking Don for his autograph and service sixty years ago.