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Perfectly Imperfect Life..........

Wednesday, December 28, 2011

True Story of Ann Margret

True Story of Ann Margret



This is one that should be on the front page of all our newspapers
and part of Prime-Time News! ...

Ann Margret....
This is a good counter-balance story to the Jane Fonda,
" Vietnam Woman Of The Year," story.
Viet Nam 1966



Richard, (my husband), never really talked a lot about his time in Viet Nam , other than he had been shot by a sniper. However, he had a rather grainy, 8 x 10 black and white photo he had taken at a USO show of Ann Margret with Bob Hope in the background that was one of his treasures.


A few years ago, Ann Margret was doing a book signing at a local bookstore. Richard wanted to see if he could get her to sign the treasured photo so he arrived at the bookstore at 12 o'clock for the 7:30 signing.


When I got there after work, the line went all the way around the bookstore, circled the parking lot, and disappeared behind a parking garage. Before her appearance, bookstore employees announced that she would sign only her book and no memorabilia would be permitted.

Richard was disappointed, but wanted to show her the photo and let her know how much those shows meant to lonely GI's so far from home.. Ann Margret came out looking as beautiful as ever and, as second in line, it was soon Richard's turn.



He presented the book for her signature and then took out the photo. When he did, there were many shouts from the employees that she would not sign it. Richard said, "I understand. I just wanted her to see it."


She took one look at the photo, tears welled up in her eyes and she said, "This is one of my gentlemen from Viet Nam and I most certainly will sign his photo. I know what these men did for their country and I always have time for 'my gentlemen.''
With that, she pulled Richard across the table and planted a big kiss on him. She then made quite a to-do about the bravery of the young men she met over the years, how much she admired them, and how much she appreciated them. There weren't too many dry eyes among those close enough to hear. She then posed for pictures and acted as if he were the only one there.



Later at dinner, Richard was very quiet. When I asked if he'd like to talk about it, my big, strong husband broke down in tears. ''That's the first time anyone ever thanked me for my time in the Army,'' he said.


That night was a turning point for him. He walked a little straighter and, for the first time in years, was proud to have been a Vet. I'll never forget Ann Margret for her graciousness and how much that small act of kindness meant to my husband.


I now make it a point to say 'Thank you' to every person I come across who served in our Armed Forces. Freedom does not come cheap and I am grateful for all those who have served their country.

'THANK YOU!' to each of you who receive this message who have served or are serving our country in the armed services or any other service.

5 comments:

  1. What a wonderful story that you have shared with us today Deb. I have always admired Ann Margaret and I'm so glad that she did not dissappoint me or your husband.
    My brother served in Vietnam and has suffered from PTSD for many years. I always remember to thank our soldiers. Without the, where would we be.

    hugs
    Sissie

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  2. I have always liked her and now I like her a whole lot more.
    Today's celebrities have a lot to learn from this class act.

    A beautiful story.
    Thank you for sharing.

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  3. I thank every vet as well. This is your husband? sandie

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  4. Hi Deb, We went to see her this year for our anniversary. She is a class act and did so very much for our soldiers. I always liked watching when Bob Hope took a group over seas. Thanks for sharing. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. Hugs from Your Missouri Friend.

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  5. What a truly wonderful story!! I was a child when the Vietnam war ended but respect and admire all who served then and who are serving now. I'm so happy that your husband's heart is happy again!

    Peace and Happy New Year!
    Patti

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I'd love for you to leave me a comment. Helps me to know I'm not totally crazy...like my family thinks I am!
*hugs*deb

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