black mamba
Well-known member
There have been many heroes throughout the history of our nation....probably many more unknown than those known. Wars have produced the majority of these individuals ..... wars both current and those long ago. I had the distinct pleasure of hosting a dinner for one such individual recently. His name is Harold ( Hal ) Buell. Hal is a retired Naval Commander and aviator who was an active participant during the Pacific conflict of WWII. At 87 years of age, he still exudes a distinguished manner and an inner sense of purpose that is hard to ignore. He is quite affable, but you readily discern that there is not much b*** s*** in his demeanor.
Hal is the only aviator known...either American or Japanese....to have been present in all five of the great carrier-to-carrier conflicts throughout the Pacific theatre. He received many decorations for bravery and was known for being an innovator of combat tactics. He wrote a terrific book about his experiences called " Dauntless Helldivers ". After the war, he went on to receive both a Masters degree and a PH.D at Florida State University.
I spent the better part of four hours enjoying the company of Hal and his lovely wife, Molly. I came away with an enhanced appreciation for what these type individuals have done for us, as people and as a nation. The commitment they bore to risk it all to ensure that this nation shall prevail should be a beacon for each one of us. Surely, there are many who are doing the same now for this country in far-flung quarters. I came away from my time with Hal feeling a bit inadequate but, at the same time, feeling very bouyed because of the knowlege that people like him are out there now.
Hal is the only aviator known...either American or Japanese....to have been present in all five of the great carrier-to-carrier conflicts throughout the Pacific theatre. He received many decorations for bravery and was known for being an innovator of combat tactics. He wrote a terrific book about his experiences called " Dauntless Helldivers ". After the war, he went on to receive both a Masters degree and a PH.D at Florida State University.
I spent the better part of four hours enjoying the company of Hal and his lovely wife, Molly. I came away with an enhanced appreciation for what these type individuals have done for us, as people and as a nation. The commitment they bore to risk it all to ensure that this nation shall prevail should be a beacon for each one of us. Surely, there are many who are doing the same now for this country in far-flung quarters. I came away from my time with Hal feeling a bit inadequate but, at the same time, feeling very bouyed because of the knowlege that people like him are out there now.
Last edited by a moderator:
