1.
Apr. 1, 2007

Recently my father showed me a picture of himself along with 3 other men, that was printed in the All Hands PT boat Squadrons, Bases, Tender magazine Vol. 61, No.1. On page 10 at the bottom left hand corner there is a picture of my father Bill Hunter along with Russ Simmons, Dan Giancola & Whitey Kemp. Such a proud feeling came over me as I stared at this young man in the photo and then glanced across the table at my 80 year old father.

My name is Ruth Ann Kaesebier. I am one of 5 children of Bill Hunters. Many times my dad has shared events he has experienced in the service, and lately with tears in his eyes. I believe over the years as time has taken my fathers health dad realizes how lucking he is to have survived the war. When my father told me he was only seventeen when he went to war, I could only think of my only son at that age, why he was only a baby. I am sure that my father, as well as many others at that time only thought of serving their country and not there age.

I wonder, if my father knew he was not only doing a service for his country, he was also serving those he did not yet know (his wife and children). He was providing a way for us to live in freedom. Sacrificing a home cooked meal, hot shower and soft pillows to lay his head on at night. I thank God he did not have to sacrifice his life.

As a young child I thought of my father as no more than the man who was always there to help provide, care for and love me and my siblings. As a women of 48, and listing to my dad tell of the events that took place as he served his country, I have more respect and admiration for him than ever before. I am proud of him for being that young man in the photo. He stood up for something he believed in, Lives were being taken before his eyes and fear was beside him many times. I know this because I have seen it in his eyes when he told me his stories.

These photos not only reflect the past, they are the reality of the stories my father has told me. Thank you for not forgetting my father and so many others. I know that after what my dad has shared with me and the pictures I have seen I will not forget what my father did for me.

I love my dad with all my heart and will cherish every story he has shared with me.


God bless all who have served our country and those who are serving it now.

Ruth Ann Kaesebier