Speaker Dave Mann gave Providence Rotarians the opportunity to reflect on the cost of the freedom we enjoy today in the United States. Mr. Mann, 90, is a true American hero who recounts his experiences in his book, “What I Fought For" He is a WWII veteran who was awarded three Purple Hearts for his bravery.
He was barely 18 years old when he called by the draft board and sent to France. He served under General Patton as a combat engineer building bridges in advance of troop movements. Mr. Mann has mixed feelings about the Purple Heart awards. While he’s very proud of the awards, he’s sad about the events and losses that came along with them. At the Battle of the Bulge, he was the only survivor of his entire outfit. He often asks, “God, why me?”
The American flag was an inspiration to Mr. Mann when he woke in a hospital in France and remains a vital symbol to him today. It was in a New York bar immediately after the war that he gave his first lesson on valuing freedom. He was out on the town with a friend and the soldiers, in full dress uniform, were enjoying the enormous respect they were receiving for their service to the country. Complimentary food, liquor and access to great music from people like Nat King Cole and Ella Fitzgerald were lavished on the soldiers.But the war was never completely forgotten. A man confronted the soldiers and demanded to know why they deserved such special treatment. Mr. Mann pointed to the American flag on the wall and told the man how he had seen his best friend and others die in France to protect the Flag and all it symbolized.
He asked the audience to join with him in honoring the service of veterans by not letting their stories die. He encouraged the audience to ask soldiers of all generations to tell and retell their war stories so Americans never forget the price veterans paid for our freedom. If anyone is interested in purchasing a copy of Dave's book for $12 you can contact Don Saracen.
Geoff Gaunt was installed as a new Rotary board member
