Monthly Archives: November 2016

Michael had been at the Hospital for Special Surgery for almost five years, and his practice was thriving. Financially he had gone from being totally broke to now being able to afford a Townhouse in one of New York’s most … Continue reading →

It took Michael days to get adjusted to the normal way of life that he had left before going to Vietnam. There were no firefights, no shelling ,and the absence of helicopters blades and the moans off the wounded had … Continue reading →

Packing the last few items into his duffle bag Michael closed his locker and readied himself to catch a helicopter to Da Nang where he would board a flight to Hawaii.He was too excited to eat, but had already imbibed … Continue reading →

Michael had picked up a word that seemed to be a constant with all of the combat marines. He often heard them in the mess hall refer to DEROS.This was a word that stood for” Date Eligible for return from … Continue reading →

Two factors had an impact on Michael in the ensuing months. The first was the ongoing conversations with Father Ray Aumack about the purpose and value of the conflict. His deep belief in the righteousness of the war had not … Continue reading →

Michael had never seen Mass as an obligation, but rather as a source of strength and spiritual fulfillment.The opportunity despite his chaotic surgical schedule to attend mass daily on the base was his anchor in this sea of madness. Father … Continue reading →

Michael had been in Vietnam for several months, and though it would be impossible to completely adjust to the circumstances, he found himself more and more settled with his duties as a combat surgeon He marveled at the number of … Continue reading →

The heat and humidity in Vietnam surpassed even the record-setting days that Michael had experienced at Bellevue during July and August. He had because of the humidity in the barracks slept fitfully, and was drenched with perspiration when he woke … Continue reading →

True to his word Fergy appeared at daybreak and setting down the chopper he immediately helped Michael on board and headed for the base.After landing Michael had his papers and Id scrutinized by the MP’s and he was escorted to … Continue reading →

Due to gale force winds and torrential rain Michael’s commercial flight to Hawaii was cancelled.. Stranded with three Air force officers it appeared that he would be spending the night in an airport chair One oi the Air Force officers … Continue reading →