Dear Mom and Dad
By Jack R. Dauner
Dauner and Associates, 2000, $29

This book was written with one main purpose in mind: to pay tribute to the author’s parents.

Dr. Jack R. Dauner, a Pinehurst resident, compiled this 340 page book using the over 450 unedited letters that he sent to his parents during World War II. The 22 chapters are based on the various assignments he had during his three years of service as a meteorology cadet.

Dauner, an only child, gives great credit to his parents for shaping and molding his character. He volunteered for military service at the age of 19 following his graduation from Dubuque Senior High School and after two years at the university there.

It might strike the reader that perhaps reading so many letters could become tiresome. Not so, for the author is a fine writer and blends in his observations of people and events before and after the chapters.

It is obvious much determination went into his many-faceted career in the Army. From his induction to meterological training to Army specialized training, basic training and on to duty with three Infantry Divisions, including combat in Europe (during which time he was wounded) and finally into duty as a control tower operator with the Army Air Force, he seized each opportunity to take advantage of traveling and making new friends both in the United States and Europe.

Dauner says that “one of the greatest things that ever happened to me in my younger days was serving my country during World War II.”

He received the Combat Infantry Badge, European Theater of Opeartions Medal with three bronze battle stars, the Purple Heart, the American Campaign Medal, Good Conduct Medal, World War II Victory Medal and Distinguished Unit Citation.

A special part of his book is the placement of numerous photographs of friends, relatives, combat scenes and historical shots.

Dauner’s book is available locally at the Country Bookshop in Southern Pines or directly from the author at P.O. Box 4719, Pinehurst 28374.

Herb Garris is a World War II veteran and POW. He makes his home in Pinehurst.