Pentagon Papers - hmmm

So interesting ...

Its official, I really enjoy the research aspect of writing.
History unfolding right before my eyes.

Clearance to use CIA Docs!!!

I just received clearance and authorization to use declassified CIA docs pertaining to the Vietnam war for my book!!!
Let the swimming through political mud begin!

Interview with the Calaveras Enterprise

This week, reporter Kate Gonzales from the Calaveras Enterprise made the trek to Copperopolis to interview Micki and me regarding the collection of love letters and the book in progress. She was so thorough! 1 1/2 hours later I think she received more information than she planned on:)

The memories for Micki were as crystal clear as if it was yesterday. The first time she saw Jim; their wedding; his Christmas leave; the feeling of utter despair when the freshly pressed uniformed soldier stood on her doorstep informing her of her loss; the overpowering fragrance from the flowers at the memorial; the numbness; then the emptiness.

Again I need to thank Micki for allowing me the honor of writing this book. The particular trip down memory lane will be a long and difficult one for Micki but as she says, "This is not about me, its about telling the true story of our boys, young men, not the Hollywood version." These letters show how the men dealt with what was going on around them, their intense need for contact from home, living just one more day on the fuel that letter from home gave them...the hope.

April 9, 1967

I thank God each night for my wife and my life and also enjoy every breath that I take and praise every morning I wake up too. It means another day gone, another day I’m alive, and another day closer to being home with my wife forever.

Every ounce of love to you sweetie,

Jim

Preliminary Book Cover for "It's Lonely Here in Hell" love letters from Nam

Final Letter from Nam

I just finished entering the final letter from PFC James Piper to his wife Micki, written on April 9, 1967.
Now to complete my research.