The MPs guarding the gate never questioned why two soldiers were transporting a sheep in a jeep. The Company Commander laughed as they tried to put the sheep in his office. The base hospital wasn't laughing when a bulletin was issued for missing experimental research sheep.
Young soldiers can get into mischief but at the same time have a tremendous responsibility guarding WWII German POWs. That is what the Army assigned Robert and other young men to do, all for fifty dollars a month.
Born in Appalachia, Robert's life story began prior to the great depression. His parents used ancient farming methods, made their children's clothes and shoes, and crafted toothbrushes from birch trees. Their family, faith and humor carried them through challenging years.
Heart in hand, Robert searched for a spouse during and after the war. He eventually proclaimed to a friend "I am going to marry that girl." At the time, he had never spoken to the lady that he would marry three months later. Through the support of dedicated, patient teachers, Robert completed his H.S. diploma at age 27 and while a father of a young family. Next to his senior school picture, the quote reads: "Nothing is impossible to a willing heart." That quote reflected what his life would become over the next 70 years.
Robert's many different occupations expanded his world. The funny stories will make you laugh.