Books to Borrow Williamsburg Public Library Recommends

Alive and going home. Surely it must be a dream. Worried he might awaken back in Iwo Jima, still fighting or maybe not make it at all, Stuart “Tex” McAnally steadied himself and reassured himself he was really going home. Many weren’t so lucky.

Stuart McAnally, 96-year-old World War II veteran, reminisces with his daughter Tamra McAnally Bolton, who has captivatingly communicated his musings in this unique volume. McAnally retells the little known history of C Company, 31st Construction Battalion, and their heroic acts during the early days of the Battle of Iwo Jima. He details his journey from his peaceful farming community to his experiences during combat training and battle.

A conversation over coffee. A lifetime shared between father and daughter, shared through storytelling, graciously shared in this book. They talk about the time before the war and the time after the war. About leaving home. And the possibility of not returning. Going in, the men knew it could be a one way trip. McAnally recollects people he met, served with, and remained friends with over the years. While they talk, the reader enjoys the interactions in the present of what they’re doing while chatting. We move through the home with them, sit at the kitchen table while they make coffee, recline on the porch while listening to stories. We wait while someone checks on Mom. Sometimes she joins in to listen.

Heading out to sea, he glimpsed one last look at home not knowing if ever would return. Revealing memories of the old days can be bittersweet. Many didn’t get to return home. Not alive anyway. Those who did carried their memories with them and the guilt of surviving.

Readers will feel right at home as though they are sitting down to reflect with a friend or family member sharing stories of days gone by.

The firsthand account of a fighting Seabee is heartfelt in its sincerity. The author has great love for her subject and his experiences, as well as respect for the history she uncovers during the course interviewing process. Tex shared numerous photographs of that time with his daughter during their story sessions, many of which are included in this volume. He and his daughter shared many memories and maybe a few tears. Their family is indeed blessed.