SAMUEL K. BEAMON

Over the weekend I read Sam Beamon's book "Flying Death" The Vietnam Experience. Very well written and an easy read...I could not put it down. It was like watching a movie...sitting comfortable on my recliner the words just keep you tuned in to this heartfelt story of an 18yr old boy who not only became a Marine, but became a man in a short period of time. I thank his mom for the prayers that brought him home safely and give him my condolences for all the fellow marines, especially those who were his good friends, who lost their lives fighting for our country. May they rest in peace.

 

Upon reading the last words...I was speechless...a trait that is not typical for me. The only thought that came to mind was "AMEN" I really needed time to obsorb all of its content. This story, although it is titled the Vietnam Experience, speaks of much more than being in combat, it speaks of the bond between the young men who served together, the daily support for not only our country but for each other, and not only during, but before and after their time served, an experienced shared that each and everyone of them will forever remember and hold dear in their heart. Life is here today, yet not promised for tomorrow...a fact that this story will help all to believe. It also shows the importance in the stuggle for equality...we all can learn from these young men who worked together on a daily basis just to survive, they were there for each other...yet they returned home to a country that even decades later still can't figure out that "one hand washes the other" no matter who you are or where you come from.

 

All I can say is that I personally learned a lot from reading this book. It really makes you think about the things in your life that you stress out on and ask yourself why? it could be worse...it could be Vietnam? I have an increased respect for the men and women in our armed forces both past and present and I thank my friend Sam Beamon for taking the time and effort in sharing this experience and hope that all who read its heartfelt, touching story will share it with their friends and family and so on and so forth...so the world will never forget those who serve to make our home a better place.