I lived next door to Bill & Lucille for almost 20 years. At his passing they were married almost 70 years, a heroic accomplishment attained by few in our world. During the past 5 years, Bill & I became close friends as his health & vitality eroded as he reached the final stages of a life well lived for the benefit of all humanity. I had the privilege of taking him to his doctors, the VA medical clinic , the bank , and the donut shop which was such a necessary start to his daily routine. For years Bill would hang out with his WWII veteran friends for a short time always remembering to buy several glazed donuts to take home to Lucille. As he reached the final months of his life, Bill still enjoyed his donuts, his See's candy, and his coffee with 3 sugars. On one trip to a doctor's appointment, he told me about a bombing mission he flew in Japan on the day the first atomic bomb was dropped. He said he could see a mushroom cloud about 50 miles away. He added that none of the pilots were briefed about this historic bombing. I was struck with the impact of the atomic bombing on our history since 1945, the year I was born. Since that day and the second atomic bomb dropping in Japan, Americans have fought & many have died for our freedom and that of our allies. Yet we have not used atomic weapons again. Bill has taught me the value of simple acts of kindness to show my appreciation to all veterans. Thanks and Peace to Bill and those who are serving our country.

Lynn A Lacey
Rancho Cordova, CA