Guy Falcioni was a WWII vet who spent over two years in the Philippines. He was a radio operator with the Signal Corp, the unit that was responsible for all radio communications, including Morse Code. He saw combat during his time served, and like many from his generation, kept most of those memories to himself. Only many years later as an ailing old man did he reveal some of those experiences. I was one of the lucky few who had a chance to listen to him as he told of those frightening, yet exciting moments of his life. He said his service in WWII was among the most important and gratifying experiences of his life. He knew he was doing something important for his country and fellow citizens.

After he died, my sister-in-law went through his belongings, and discovered an old letter where he documented an important moment in history that he witnessed first-hand; the surrender of Japanese forces in Northern Luzon. The letter also documented a lot of how he spent his time there. It is a remarkable bit of WWII history told by someone who lived it.

In remembrance of my father-in-law Guy and to all soldiers past and present, Happy Veterans Day.