American Hero: Stanley T. Adams

What can I say? Makes me feel thankful for men and women that always step up to the fight, regardless of the danger they face.

Thanks for putting my trivialities in perspective.

This is a select company of men; and I do not cease to be in awe when I read about them.

The term "Bravest of the Brave" is just not strong enough to describe them. This is the reason that medal of honor winners are saluted by generals, even if the rank of the winner is "enlisted". (Sadly, most medals of honor are not given to "living" men.)

I would be very interested if you both are able to put that blog together where vets share their experiences. I hope it happens.

I've never served. (Rejected due to having very poor vision. I was crushed.) I like to read books on this subject, but what I prefer are the unwashed stories, ones that haven't been spruced up to sell books and magazines. Out of respect, I won't ask a vet to share their experiences if they don't offer first. I am sure I am not alone.

Maybe you didn't make First Sergeant back then without seeing some blood and mud beforehand. I don't know. I just know this man, a vet of N. Africa and that grind from Hell known as Italy, had no doubts what he was getting him and his men into. This was no fresh-faced newly-commissioned officer here.

Col. Adams, if ever put to it, I hope I could show half the bravery you posessed. Even if you and all of your men had fallen, how many more lives would you have still saved by the time you bought with your sacrifice? I have to believe that to a man who knew his business like you, that was all that mattered to you on that day.

When we sometimes get down, and wonder if the fight is worth it, we read about men like this and it becomes clear.

You only fail if you stop getting back up.