From Germany with Love

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[M]y father and I did a lot of talking about his dad, Henry V. Beck, while we were in Berlin. We wanted to see where he was at this extraordinary time of his life as an army man stationed overseas. I have some of these old photographs – we always love to compare how much my brother looks like him – and a very real and moving poem he wrote while so very far from the ones he loved. These artifacts sat for decades in an old army trunk in his closet and are now some of my most beloved possessions of this thoughtful and very elegant family man.

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  • Jessica B.

    Jamie- I loved this. What a handsome fellow…those pictures and the poetry are fantastic! I can also see where your gift of writing comes from. Such an awesome glimpse into the past. Thanks for sharing! x

  • Guest

    Really fascinating poem! Thanks for sharing Jamie. The photos are incredible.

  • Oh, what treasures to cherish.

  • tahoe

    What a wonderful tribute to your Grandfather. And yes, there is a strong resemblance to your brother.

  • A true treasure — your grandfather & his poem. Back in 2011, I shared a letter my dad penned while stationed on Iwo Jima during WWII on my blog. My hope is that these special treasures live on with those who come long after we are gone. Thank you for sharing yours with all of us.

    • Can you paste a link? I’d love to see it.

      • Thanks for asking. Here is the link to my short post that shows just one page of my dad’s letter from Iwo Jima all those years ago. http://ow.ly/ATO50

  • Mike Beck

    Amazing family history. To those of us who served in the military, your grandfather’s words ring true. Being away from home and loved ones ages you. It is hard to think of anything but home.

  • This is incredible. And the poem is on spot and beautiful. Seems like you get some of your creativity and love for art from him… and handsome man too! x

  • Erin Hiemstra

    This is so moving Jaime! What an amazing treasure for you to have!

  • Annawithlove

    Brought tears to my eyes. So moving and beautiful. Thank you for sharing with us all Jamie! XO

  • Sanne Lelie

    What great privilege to have this in your family history. Treasure it 🙂 Love that you shared it with us