Love Long Distance
Viewing comments for Chapter 25 "Courage Above & Beyond-Chapt. 25"A Wartime Romance
20 total reviews
Comment from karenina
Sweet Lord Almighty this is an amazing account! So often people see a Viet Nam Vet and see ONLY that side of him...the beauty of this story is we've come to know the love between Bill and Cathy--we are invested in that love and in their baby to come-- Bill shows the human side of surviving a war--(keeping his black humor with the psychiatrist, et al). I find myself on the edge of my seat during the war-time description, and holding my breath, hoping Bill comes out unscathed while simultaneously remembering my visit to The Wall in D.C.--and weeping at all the names of the lost souls who never had a chance to return. Excellent as always!--Karenina
reply by the author on 22-Apr-2020
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Sweet Lord Almighty this is an amazing account! So often people see a Viet Nam Vet and see ONLY that side of him...the beauty of this story is we've come to know the love between Bill and Cathy--we are invested in that love and in their baby to come-- Bill shows the human side of surviving a war--(keeping his black humor with the psychiatrist, et al). I find myself on the edge of my seat during the war-time description, and holding my breath, hoping Bill comes out unscathed while simultaneously remembering my visit to The Wall in D.C.--and weeping at all the names of the lost souls who never had a chance to return. Excellent as always!--Karenina
Comment Written 11-Apr-2020
reply by the author on 22-Apr-2020
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Hi Karenina, Thank you SO MUCH for the AWESOME six star rating and review. WOOHOO! We are HONORED and very glad you enjoyed this chapter! A double "SALUTE" to you! Great comments. The moving wall is aptly named - so heartbreaking. Chapter 27 is coming soon, so stay tuned. Wishing you all the best. Take care and God bless.
Respectfully with Admiration,
Bill & Cathy
Comment from robyn corum
Hello, again.
It's always horrifying to me to read about the moments our guys spent in Vietnam. My uncle was there during the Pet Offensive (is that right?) and though he will not talk about it, I have some idea what travesties those men saw and even were made to participate in. God bless every single one of them.
This stuff makes this story even more impactful. Well done.
Of course, I still have stuff for you to look at:
1.) home to Cathy and our baby.(") Darkness walked across my eyes.
2.) let's get ready to kick ass(,)" I bellowed.
3.) he switched the infrared sensor and night vision switches on,
--> switch x2
4.) You could have easily aced the shrink's evaluation and became a Commando somebody.
--> I didn't get this- help?
5.) I feel like you know this and are okay with it, so I only mention it bc sometimes i know when I make last minute edits somethings can get by me -- making sure you know that in S2 - lines 1 and 2 don't rhyme.
Still worth the five. Thanks!
reply by the author on 22-Apr-2020
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Hello, again.
It's always horrifying to me to read about the moments our guys spent in Vietnam. My uncle was there during the Pet Offensive (is that right?) and though he will not talk about it, I have some idea what travesties those men saw and even were made to participate in. God bless every single one of them.
This stuff makes this story even more impactful. Well done.
Of course, I still have stuff for you to look at:
1.) home to Cathy and our baby.(") Darkness walked across my eyes.
2.) let's get ready to kick ass(,)" I bellowed.
3.) he switched the infrared sensor and night vision switches on,
--> switch x2
4.) You could have easily aced the shrink's evaluation and became a Commando somebody.
--> I didn't get this- help?
5.) I feel like you know this and are okay with it, so I only mention it bc sometimes i know when I make last minute edits somethings can get by me -- making sure you know that in S2 - lines 1 and 2 don't rhyme.
Still worth the five. Thanks!
Comment Written 08-Apr-2020
reply by the author on 22-Apr-2020
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Hi Robyn, Have we told you yet how much we need you? Thank you for reading, reviewing and editing this chapter. HURRAH! You always are so helpful, and we greatly appreciate it! Thank you also for sharing. As you know, Chapter 26 has already been posted, and Chapter 27 is coming very soon. Take care and God bless.
Respectfully with Admiration,
Bill & Cathy
Comment from Commando
HURRAH! Beat the drums, and clash the symbols, our baby is a 'kicking! Hmm! Maybe I should say, babies, 'cause the pediatrician was drinking moonshine when he examined you last. A "SALUTE" too you for allowing me to be the hero of this chapter, co-author! Chapter 26 belongs to you. It is an honor having an "AWESOME WRITER" (YOU) at my side. A 2nd "SALUTE!" A Six Star (plus) worthy; yet, I haven't any. "IOU!" Respectfully with Admiration and "Tons of Love!" Bill
reply by the author on 20-Apr-2020
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HURRAH! Beat the drums, and clash the symbols, our baby is a 'kicking! Hmm! Maybe I should say, babies, 'cause the pediatrician was drinking moonshine when he examined you last. A "SALUTE" too you for allowing me to be the hero of this chapter, co-author! Chapter 26 belongs to you. It is an honor having an "AWESOME WRITER" (YOU) at my side. A 2nd "SALUTE!" A Six Star (plus) worthy; yet, I haven't any. "IOU!" Respectfully with Admiration and "Tons of Love!" Bill
Comment Written 08-Apr-2020
reply by the author on 20-Apr-2020
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Drum Roll for you, Co-author! You are a HERO, as well as an AWESOME WRITER! Amazing chapter and all because of YOU! WE are getting so close to the end of this book. I am so HONORED to write by your side, and I can't wait until we see this book published with both our names on the cover. HURRAH! You're the BEST!
Respectfully with Admiration and "Tons and Tons of Love!"
Cathy
Comment from damommy
This chapter contained some great dialogue and action. The poem Bill wrote was touching. Cathy will really like it.
My family has many with a military background, so I can identify with the struggle of leaving loved ones behind as Bill did when he left for Viet Nam.
reply by the author on 20-Apr-2020
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This chapter contained some great dialogue and action. The poem Bill wrote was touching. Cathy will really like it.
My family has many with a military background, so I can identify with the struggle of leaving loved ones behind as Bill did when he left for Viet Nam.
Comment Written 06-Apr-2020
reply by the author on 20-Apr-2020
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Thank you, Yvonne, for reading and reviewing this chapter. Also, for your continued support. It means so much to both of us. Great comments and, yes, Cathy really loved the poem Bill wrote! Chapter 26 has been posted, and Chapter 27 is written and coming soon. Wishing you a wonderful week. Take care and God bless.
Respectfully with Admiration,
Bill & Cathy
Comment from Rosemary Everson1
I'm sure hoping your story does bring Bill home and Cathy awaiting at the train station with a bundle of joy. After reading the sounds of the war zones and the moments of military medical care, bliss isn't always resent in the end.
reply by the author on 22-Apr-2020
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I'm sure hoping your story does bring Bill home and Cathy awaiting at the train station with a bundle of joy. After reading the sounds of the war zones and the moments of military medical care, bliss isn't always resent in the end.
Comment Written 06-Apr-2020
reply by the author on 22-Apr-2020
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Hi Rosemary, We sure hope that's what happens, too! Thank you so much for reading and reviewing this chapter. Your continued support means so much to us. Chapter 26 has been posted, and Chapter 27 is written and coming very soon. Wishing you all the best. Take care and God bless.
Respectfully with Admiration,
Bill & Cathy
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what are the names of your books so when I read them I know which ones they are.
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1. Love Long Distance 2. An Angel in the Meadow 3. Joined-at-the-Hip 4. My Jigsaw Puzzle; the Missing Piece 5. Footprints of Yesterday
I post Book 1 and 5, and Bill posts Books 2, 3 and 4. :)
Comment from Robert Zimmerman
Hello Tootie. This is an action filled chapter for sure. The description of flying the chopper which is probably a Huey UH 1B gunship is very realistic. I was reminded of one other thing when I read Tan Son Nhut. I believe Bob Hope took his touring group there one Christmas.
This is an excellent descriptive phrase:
"Darkness walked across my eyes."
Still reading.
Robert
reply by the author on 22-Apr-2020
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Hello Tootie. This is an action filled chapter for sure. The description of flying the chopper which is probably a Huey UH 1B gunship is very realistic. I was reminded of one other thing when I read Tan Son Nhut. I believe Bob Hope took his touring group there one Christmas.
This is an excellent descriptive phrase:
"Darkness walked across my eyes."
Still reading.
Robert
Comment Written 05-Apr-2020
reply by the author on 22-Apr-2020
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Hi Robert, Yes, good info about Bob Hope. Thank you! Thank you, as well, for reading and reviewing this chapter. As you know, Chapter 26 has been posted since your review here. Chapter 27 will prove to be filled with action, too. It has been written and will be posted very soon. Take care and God bless.
Respectfully with Admiration,
Bill & Cathy
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You're welcome
Comment from RShipp
For example, when I asked if he sometimes felt like kissing a man, he replied, 'Yes, Doctor, but let's wait until after dark so no one will see us.' hahahha!
"Doodling on them when I got bored!" ... I could see that happenings. ahhaha!
Well done, again. As usual.
I loved the accompanying music clips you provided with your story.
reply by the author on 22-Apr-2020
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For example, when I asked if he sometimes felt like kissing a man, he replied, 'Yes, Doctor, but let's wait until after dark so no one will see us.' hahahha!
"Doodling on them when I got bored!" ... I could see that happenings. ahhaha!
Well done, again. As usual.
I loved the accompanying music clips you provided with your story.
Comment Written 05-Apr-2020
reply by the author on 22-Apr-2020
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Hello RShipp! We really appreciate you pointing out the lines you liked most. Glad they gave you a chuckle! Thanks so much for reading and reviewing this chapter. Also, thank you for mentioning that you love the accompanying music clips. Chapter 26 has been posted, and Chapter 27 is written and will be posted very soon. Wishing you all the best. God Bless.
Respectfully with Admiration,
Bill & Cathy
Comment from Jannypan (Jan)
This is an AWESOME chapter, Bill and Cathy. After reading it, I can see the title applied to both main characters--Cathy with her courage waiting for Bill to return and Bill with his courage during the Viet Nam Conflict. Both exemplify courage above and beyond.
As promised in the last chapter, this was riveting in scope with the setting in the that of the above mentioned conflict.
Nothing is spared in the description of the toil the conflict delivers. I was engaged from start to finish. The descriptions of the helicopter carrying the Commandos was intense. I love the term 'egg-beater' to describe the helicopter. The dialogue among the personnel aboard was fun to read, sounded natural as a way not only to relieve the tension, but how real it was. Having been on such a helicopter in Operation Desert Storm, I believe the men talked like you presented. It is an insight into that few readers will know first-hand.
The exchange between the men was lively and kept readers (me) interested throughout. I love the part about the rabbit's foot. The comradery between the men is reflected in the way they treat each other whether on the ground fighting, in the mess hall, aboard the helicopter, or in position watching for the targets. It was natural and believable. The part where Bill is in the hospital just prior to release sounded like his true nature in speaking. The response of the doctors was fun and believable.
Bill's poem to Cathy was EXCEPTIONAL in all respects. Not only is it well-written as far as poetry writing; but, it showed another side of his personality. The smooth flow and excellent rhymes and examples weree AWESOME. His message is loud and clear of how much he loves Cathy and their baby. It is a piece of writing that could stand alone as an exceptional poem. I know Cathy will treasure it forever! I believe at times like it was written, the author, in this case, Bill, let his mind return to happier times in the face of the unknown foe. It gave him something to focus his mind on (love) besides the situation he was facing. His positive attitude here and that of the same train to bring him safely home was important. I believe in time of battle one must have that kind of attitude to help him survive.
The videos chosen clearly identify the time period and some of society's thoughts. Each one was great. I liked the Hank Thompson song. Thanks for including those.
I, also, love the way God is always present in your writing. I look forward to the next chapter.
Thanks for sharing, Bill and Cathy.
Respectfully with Love and Admiration, Jan
reply by the author on 22-Apr-2020
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This is an AWESOME chapter, Bill and Cathy. After reading it, I can see the title applied to both main characters--Cathy with her courage waiting for Bill to return and Bill with his courage during the Viet Nam Conflict. Both exemplify courage above and beyond.
As promised in the last chapter, this was riveting in scope with the setting in the that of the above mentioned conflict.
Nothing is spared in the description of the toil the conflict delivers. I was engaged from start to finish. The descriptions of the helicopter carrying the Commandos was intense. I love the term 'egg-beater' to describe the helicopter. The dialogue among the personnel aboard was fun to read, sounded natural as a way not only to relieve the tension, but how real it was. Having been on such a helicopter in Operation Desert Storm, I believe the men talked like you presented. It is an insight into that few readers will know first-hand.
The exchange between the men was lively and kept readers (me) interested throughout. I love the part about the rabbit's foot. The comradery between the men is reflected in the way they treat each other whether on the ground fighting, in the mess hall, aboard the helicopter, or in position watching for the targets. It was natural and believable. The part where Bill is in the hospital just prior to release sounded like his true nature in speaking. The response of the doctors was fun and believable.
Bill's poem to Cathy was EXCEPTIONAL in all respects. Not only is it well-written as far as poetry writing; but, it showed another side of his personality. The smooth flow and excellent rhymes and examples weree AWESOME. His message is loud and clear of how much he loves Cathy and their baby. It is a piece of writing that could stand alone as an exceptional poem. I know Cathy will treasure it forever! I believe at times like it was written, the author, in this case, Bill, let his mind return to happier times in the face of the unknown foe. It gave him something to focus his mind on (love) besides the situation he was facing. His positive attitude here and that of the same train to bring him safely home was important. I believe in time of battle one must have that kind of attitude to help him survive.
The videos chosen clearly identify the time period and some of society's thoughts. Each one was great. I liked the Hank Thompson song. Thanks for including those.
I, also, love the way God is always present in your writing. I look forward to the next chapter.
Thanks for sharing, Bill and Cathy.
Respectfully with Love and Admiration, Jan
Comment Written 05-Apr-2020
reply by the author on 22-Apr-2020
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Hi Jan, A double "SALUTE" for your EXCEPTIONAL review and six star rating. HURRAH! We are HONORED! Words cannot even begin to describe how much your support and helpful (and kind) words mean to us! You are AWESOME! As you know, Chapter 26 has been posted, and Chapter 27 is written and coming very soon. Best wishes and God Bless.
Respectfully with Love and Admiration,
Bill & Cathy
Comment from Ulla
Hi to both of you. This chapter has a little bit of both worlds. On one hand there's a lot of fighting and total carnage, and then on the other there's a lot of love and care. Now, onto what happens next. All best. Ulla:)))
reply by the author on 22-Apr-2020
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Hi to both of you. This chapter has a little bit of both worlds. On one hand there's a lot of fighting and total carnage, and then on the other there's a lot of love and care. Now, onto what happens next. All best. Ulla:)))
Comment Written 05-Apr-2020
reply by the author on 22-Apr-2020
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Hi Ulla! We really appreciate all the support and encouragement. Thank you so much for reading and reviewing this chapter. It means a lot to both of us! Chapter 26 has since been posted, and
Chapter 27 is written and coming very soon! Stay tuned! Wishing you all the best. Take care and God Bless.
Respectfully with Admiration,
Bill & Cathy
Comment from thaities, Rebecca V.
Wonderful chapter! Oh, our poor boys in such a horrible war!
Bill had to have written this chapter so I give six stars in tribute to all who lived and died in the Vietnam War The videos are excellent, and the love letter and the love poem, superb. This is going to be a wonderful book.
reply by the author on 22-Apr-2020
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Wonderful chapter! Oh, our poor boys in such a horrible war!
Bill had to have written this chapter so I give six stars in tribute to all who lived and died in the Vietnam War The videos are excellent, and the love letter and the love poem, superb. This is going to be a wonderful book.
Comment Written 05-Apr-2020
reply by the author on 22-Apr-2020
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Hi Rebecca! HURRAH! Thank you SO MUCH for the AWESOME six star rating and review. A double "SALUTE" for you! Your continued support means so much to both of us. We are so happy you are loving the book! Chapter 26 has since been posted, and Chapter 27 is written and coming very soon! Best wishes and God Bless.
Respectfully with Admiration,
Bill & Cathy
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I am way behind today. Woke up to 42 messages! I'm going to look for your posting first after I get through all the replies.