Caught in the Crosshairs of History
THE DEPRESSION, WWII, POST-WAR ADJUSTMENT AND REDEMPTION
by
Book Cover & Preview Text
Our character was forged by struggle and hardship. We never experienced the economy of abundance. Deprivation was our lot. The Depression was a stark, depressing, poverty- laden existence that showed no immediate recovery for better times. It was a long, unpromising time. Winters were severe with long spells of zero weather, and summers, extended heat spells. Homes had no central heating or air conditioners. A coal stove in the kitchen provided heating. Bedrooms were so cold, our beds contained three foot quilts stuffed with feathers. Rattling windows were lullabies that put you to sleep.
When the war in Europe broke out, our economy began to stir with war production, and offered a ray of economic sunshine. I walked out of my high school one day and joined the Navy at age 17. Soon, I was in the South Pacific aboard the U.S.S. Whitney.
When the war ended, I had the option to stay with my ship to join the occupation forces in Tokyo Bay, or head home. No need to ask what choice I made. It took us 21 days to get home on a transport. Twenty-one days of chow lines, playing pinochle, observing flying fish, and dreaming of home. Finally, the sight to make your heart dance, the Golden Gate Bridge shrouded in fog. A 30-day leave, a few more months of service, then back to civilian life. The G.I. Bill offered the opportunity to higher education and a better life.
Formats
Book Details
About the Book
Growing up during the Great Depression, then caught up in WWII, is a story of hardship, courage, and finally, redemption. The G.I Bill would open the door to professional life that would never have been possible to many returning Veteran’s. It was escape from going back to the factory or digging ditches that would stifle educational and economic advancement. It was the creation of a middle class that was non-existent at that time. The G.I. Bill would open doors to higher education. Veterans would become professionals (teachers, accountants, engineers, architects) with opportunities for home ownership, economic advancement, and higher education for their children. It revitalized American society into an increasing professional class that made this country the most strongest, advanced, and respected throughout the world.