Publisher's Synopsis
It is my privilege to call Kurt neighbor; I have had the good fortune of ending up as "next-door" neighbor. From the day I first met Kurt, I observed this gentle, large-in-stature, unassuming grandfather. It took me months to find out he was a Vietnam veteran. He was proud but very selective in what he would discuss about the war until we became close friends, and he knew that we shared the same level of patriotism. The difference is he risked his life and served this country valiantly in one of the most difficult war environments known to mankind. The stories had to be extracted from him, but as he discussed and wrote about his war experience, it seemed to be a great catharsis. I know that many of these stories were discussed openly for the first time. He is a true decorated patriot. His commanding officers were so impressed with his intelligence and devotion to the cause that he was promoted in rank and was given more responsibility than was customary in the military. He validated this trust daily there and continues to be a true patriot by every dimension. These stories are born of valor and demonstrate the true cost of war to those called to sacrifice everything for our great country. I am grateful for the pages that follow and the example of those willing to "give all" for the defense of freedom. I take great satisfaction in knowing you will be able to see and experience a true hero in Kurt Vomberg. -Winston T. Capel, M.D., FACS Madison, Mississippi Kurt has stated, "I came to believe genetics, mental toughness, and the 'will' to live determined survival." Kurt's will goes beyond the desire to live and survive, but his character is to share his experiences and values with others. I first met Kurt several years ago and have grown to admire what he stands for and his faith in God. It is that faith and those values that went with Kurt through the experiences you are going to read about. In 1970, my lottery number drawn was three hundred; I was not called and I did not serve, but I am thankful for men like Kurt that did. As I grow older, I will always regret that I did not stand beside men like Kurt in their times of need. God's blessing goes out to those that did. -Eric M. Bohne
