Hello Jay/Hondo D.W.
Jay, as far back as I can remember, Audie was always the top hero in my family. I never have visited the Vets hospital named for him but I have always wanted to go there. Some of those vets can really use some cheering up this time of year. In about a year or so, I am hoping to move to San Antonio, and I will be interested in visiting with the vets there.
By the way, if you do not know it already and if you have heard of them, guess who lives in San Antonio? Clue: If you have heard of the Flying Tigers, the man who commanded the 2nd Flying Tiger Squadrion (The Panda Bears) lives in Sna Antonio. He is retired: Brig Gen David Lee "Tex" Hill. He attends gun and militaria shows as well as a few other famous WWII vets. I have a nice 8x10 photo signed by him when I met him in Feb 2002. Oh and, he is listed in the phone book and also does not mind chatting with people on the phone.
Hondo, thank you for the nice compliment. Captain Annand V.C. is a treasure that has been lost. His passing really hit me hard but I am comforted that he is in a much better place. I'm trying to get more details on what he passed away from and Funeral details. So far I have only seen obituaries from a few publications by searching in Google.
Strangely enough, the Victoria Cross site still has him as living. Also, there are now less than 12 men awarded the V.C. still living. This encludes WWII vets as well as Vietnam vets and men who earned the V.C. in other actions. There are about 125 American Medal of Honor Recipients still living, and about 700 Knights Cross recipients still living.
You are correct though. As of 2001, WWII vets were passing away at the rate of 7,000 per week. This info was given to me by the Command Chaplain of the U.S. Air Force--who had presided over the services for my Uncle. Now I understand that over 10, 000 WWII vets pass away each day (and this is only speaking of American vets and not all vets world wide, lumped in together.
I'd be glad to give anyone a quiz on WWII, anyday.
Best regards to you--Carl (TRK)