[StephenC]

Evan:

I have the utmost respect for the guys who served, fought and died in WWII (as well as other wars). If your father is still alive, tell him I said thanks for all he did.

My Dad was in the 44th Combat Engineer Battalion. 59 years ago tonight he was trapped behind German lines after they broke through the American lines during the Battle of the Bulge. Although relatively unknown, the 44th has been described in one book as the US combat unit that suffered the most during the battle for the Ardennes . It was decimated and no longer able to function as a combat unit. He hid, ran, and survived for three days and three nights, before finding his way back. He still has nightmares and cries when he talks about the friends he lost. After almost 60 years.

Dad has suffered 8 confirmed heart attacks over the last 14 months. His wish is to live until next spring so he can see the WW II Memorial dedicated in DC. I pray that he makes it, I have serious doubts.

We should never forget the price of our freedom has been the sacrifice and blood of others. God bless 'em.