James Megellas(r) next to Colonel Donahue 504th PIR FOB Salerno Afghanistan 2006
LTC James Megellas, USA (Ret) is the most decorated officer in the history of the 82nd Airborne Division.
Maggie (as his fellow troopers called him) was awarded more than 25 medals including The Distinguished Service Cross, two Silver Stars, two Bronze Stars and two Purple Hearts, Presidential Citation w/cluster, Belgium Fouragere, 6 Campaign Stars, and Master Parachutist for his WWII service.
He was selected by General James Gavin, as the most outstanding officer of the 82nd Airborne Division to receive the Netherlands, “Military Order of Willhelm Orange Lanyard” from the Dutch Minister of War in Berlin in 1945, the first American decorated by the Government of Holland. Among his most notable battles were in the Italian mountains near Venafro, the beach landing at Anzio, the jump into Holland (Operation Market Garden), the famous crossing of the Waal River under heavy German machine gun fire in broad daylight (subject of the “A Bridge too Far” movie) and the Battle of the Bulge.
Maggie commanded H. Company 504 PIR in the occupation of Berlin and led his Company, the only Company he served with during the entire war, down 5th Ave. in New York in the Victory Parade in January 1946. For his leadership and heroic action in capturing the town of Herresbach, Belgium, Jim was recommended to receive the Congressional Medal of Honor.
On January 31, 2007 Congressman Thomas Petri of Wisconsin introduced a bill (H.R 795) in the United States House of Representatives to authorize and request the President to award the Medal of Honor to James Megellas of Colleyville, Texas for acts of valor on January 28, 1945, during the Battle of the Bulge in World War II. The bill is presently in the Committee on Armed Services awaiting future action.
On July 08, 2008 Senator John Cornyn of Texas introduced a bill (S. 3232) in the United States Senate to authorize and request the President to award the Medal of Honor to James Megellas of Colleyville, Texas for acts of valor on January 28, 1945, during the Battle of the Bulge in World War II. The bill is presently in the Committee on Armed Services awaiting future action.
1942 Maggie received a BA Degree from Ripon College and an ROTC Commission as a 2nd Lt. in the Infantry.
1943-1946 Overseas—82nd Airborne Division
1946 Discharged, active duty, U.S. Army with rank of Captain.
1947-1970 Retired as Lt. Col from U.S. Army Reserves.
1962-1964 Yemen / Mission Director (USAID) Agency for International Development
1964-1968 Panama / Mission Director (USAID) Agency for International Development
1968-1970 Republic of Vietnam (RVN) Megellas was head of Civil Operations and Revolutionary Development Development Support (CORDS) in II CTZ. As deputy for II Corps civilian operations to the Commanding General of 1st Field Forces, Vietnam (with an equivalent rank of Major General).
Megellas commanded 4,000 soldiers and civilians from Vietnam and other nations, receiving from the South Vietnamese government for his service in CORDS the National Chieu Hoi Medal, and the Psychological Warfare Medal.
1970-1972 Operations Appraisal Staff, Office of the Auditor General. AID/Washington
1971 Johns Hopkins University, the degree of Master of International Public Policy.
1972-1975 AID Affairs Officer, John F. Kennedy Center for Military Assistance, Ft. Bragg, N.C. (with an equivalent rank of Major General).
1975-1979 Colombia / Mission Director (USAID) Agency for International Development
1979-1988 Florida Tech., Instructor of International Affairs.
Jim’s book, “All the Way to Berlin”, released in 2003, provides a vivid and most riveting chronicle of his first hand heroic experiences. A decorated war hero, Megellas was invited to visit his old outfit, 504th Parachute Infantry Regimentt in Afghanistan on the Pakistani border in 2006. Returning from Afghanistan Jim stopped in Holland and spoke at the inauguration of the 2nd edition of his book “All the Way to Berlin” in the Dutch language. In 2007 Megellas spent Christmas with the 82nd Airborne Division and he continues to travel support the troops and and lecture both in the US and abroad.
September 29, 2006 at 9:04 PM
Hi:
I just listened to the Audio book twice, and had the opportunity to travel with some vets to Holland. We saw the Waal bridges that you crossed, and it’s still amazing. I would very much like to purchase a signed copy of the book if that’s possible. Please let me know how I can order a copy. Thanks very much for your service!
Sincerely,
David Wear
October 10, 2006 at 1:58 PM
This is one of the best WWII books I have read. Being a novice historian on WWII, I found myself consumed with it. It is a very gripping account of the men who did the real fighting during the war. My hat is off to you Mr.Megellas.
William S.Wanto
December 22, 2006 at 3:30 AM
I just came accross the diary of Bill Rice who died last December and thought you might want a copy-It covers the first 2 months of 45. Please let me know. I enjoyed your book and the fact you pulled no punches.
January 15, 2007 at 11:28 PM
Mr. Megellas, we met in the Dallas airport last May at your book signing. I bought several copies — one for myself, and the rest for friends and family. What a fantastic story, and an extremely well crafted book. Thank you, once again, for your service, and for your sharing your story!
Best,
THOMAS BYRNE
Winchester, MA
January 17, 2007 at 1:01 AM
Sir You are truly one of my Heroes.
You and all the men who took up the torch when thier country needed them. Your book was more than an inspiration, it opened my eyes to sacrifices made by men in war and brought new insight into battles that textbooks and lectures can only touch upon. As a grandson of two Veterans and as a future soldier I salute you sir.
Sincerely,
Cadet Captain Jose A. Flores
Delta Company CO ,Gator Battalion
U.S. Army JROTC
Pembroke Pines, Florida
January 17, 2007 at 9:19 AM
Dear Mr Megellas
In September 1944 I was a 14 year old girl and lived with my family in the Dutch town of Nijmegen. Our house was just over half a mile from the bridge over the river Waal. (traffic bridge)
After reading your book, I was finally able to get a good picture of what was happening around ‘our’ bridge, during the 4 days in September that we had to shelter in our cellars. Since there was no radio or other means of communication whatsoever, all we could do was keep our fingers crossed and hope for the best. In the Museum of Liberation ‘40-45′in Groesbeek near Nijmegen an genuine sample is exhibited of the canvas boats that were used to cross the river Waal. When I visit that museum I always make a stop at that boat and try to think of what must have gone through the minds of the brave men who crossed the river.
Thank you so much for all what you have done for us and this applies to all your comrades as well. I want you to know that my feelings of gratitude have only grown during the 62 years that have passed since we were liberated. At the same time I feel so sorry for all the young Americans who left their lives here in Europe. Every time when I visit one of the war-demetries, it is good to see that they are still so well-cared-for.
Last September 23 (2006) was a wonderful day for me. That morning I read in the local newspaper that James Megellas and his wife Carole would visit the Museum
“Bevrijdende Vleugels” in Best (Netherlands). I left things as they were, jumped in my car and went to the Museum, which happened to be only 25 minutes from where I live nowadays. Of course I took my (your) book with me and now I have a signed sample of “The road to Berlin”. Thanks for dat. As you can understand, your book is very special to me. I embrace every word in it with my heart.
I also have a request. During our short meeting somebody took some pictures of the two of us. I believe he was one of your travelling companions and I recall that he also took some pictures of you amidst a group of paratroopers that were quartered in ?Germany: It would be wonderful if there is an opportunity to send me the copies of the photo’s that were taken from the two of us.
I really hope that you are able to read this short message yourself and if any additional information is needed, please ask me.
Best Regards and many greetings to your wife.
Jos Jaspars-van Woerden
January 18, 2007 at 9:06 PM
Maggie,
Your book is an inspiration–and by far the best I’ve read. In fact, I’m going to take the time to read it again.
By your exploits, I *firmly believe* you deserve the Medal of Honor.
Doug Beal
January 25, 2007 at 7:21 PM
LTC Magellas,
I just finished reading “All the Way to Berlin” and found your book truly inspiring. Being the son of a career military man (21 years as a Field Artillery Officer), I was fairly familiar with the “big-picture” events of the war in Europe. Your book gave me a totally new perspective. Being achievement oriented by nature, I found your account of the Waal River Crossing at Nijmegen a wonderful testimony to what perseverence, drive and determination can bring to a challenging task. I am going to require my 13 year old son to read that account in your book the next time he tells me he “can’t do something.”
Best wishes in all your future endeavors and God Bless you. I live and work in San Antonio. If you are ever going to make any visits or public appearances here, I would relish the opportunity to meet you in person.
February 1, 2007 at 5:46 AM
Hello,
My father was in the 82nd during WW2 and told me many things through my childhood about the war, but I forgot a lot, and unfortunately he passed away about 12 years ago. Your book helped to remind me of things that he had told me about, and gave me some perspective on the events that had happened. It was surreal to piece the stories he had told me together with the stories in your book. I have always wished to speak with someone who knew my father during the war, but I’ve never had a chance to, I don’t know if you knew him or not, but he was a fellow wisconsinite by the name of Philip Boivin, from the Menominee reservation up north. If you did in fact know him I would love to hear about it.
Thank you for writing your book, and thank you for the things that you and your fellow soldiers did (and continue to do) to protect our freedom.
-Laletta Boivin
February 9, 2007 at 10:21 PM
Dear Sir,
First of al, excuse me for taking a little of your time.
I have go your mail through a 101st association.
I introduce myself, my name is Xavier Van Daele, I am 30 years old and I am Belgian.
I claimed to create a site on the airborne troops. As well the 101ème, as the 82rd, 11th, etc… Here: http://www.usairborne.be
If you have time, feel free to take a look on it but unfortunately it is in French.
I wanted to know if you authorize me to ask you some questions so that I can integrate it in my site and make a sort of small “biography”. Of course, if you do not have time, I you will not hold rigour of it!! And I would understand completely that you refuse to answer! I think that I am not the only one who came to you with the willing of getting an interview.
I thank you in advance.
February 14, 2007 at 3:06 AM
Dear Sir, I enjoyed reading the article about you today in the Ft Worth Star Telegram. It was of great interest to me because my father was in the 82nd Airborne during WW II and was also a paratrooper at the Battle of the Bulge. First of all, I want to thank you for what you and so many others have done for this wonderful country of ours. Unfortunately, it is only recently that I have realized how you all have been taken so for granted and have not received the thanks and praise of the younger generations. The second reason I am writing is to ask if you might have known my father. My mother would not or could not tell me much about him and I am eager to know anything about him that I can. He left us shortly after I was born in 1951 and we never heard from him again. I understand that he did a little boxing during the war and that he was a musician or singer. His name was Richard Evans and was born on 9-26-14. If you know of him or know of any way that I might learn something about him, I would really appreciate your help. Thank you so much and I apologize for taking so much of your time. Good luck and God bless. Carla Crockett
March 13, 2007 at 2:03 AM
mr megellas,
my nephew asked me to email you
david is a bit of the war historian
and he especially enjoyed your
book
he would love to buy a signed copy
of your book
would you be willing to mail him one
we emailed you some time ago,
but you were on your way
out of the country
sheila
for
david
thanx
March 23, 2007 at 4:31 AM
Mr Megellas,
Somehow in all my moving around I lost the card you included in the book that you signed and sent to my Mom. I would like to thank you very much for the book. Was a great read and even made it better that you knew my Grandpa Edward Buckley. I imagine you must have gone to Ripon with him and also to FT Knox.
Thanks again,
David
May 9, 2007 at 5:43 PM
Dear LTC Megellas,
First I want to thank you and your comrades for your extraordinary service to our country.
I just finished reading your book All The Way to Berlin, it’s an important historical novel and it’s war by a combat soldier who experienced it. I was introduced to it by your interview on the Pretzker Military Museum program and afterwards thought I must read that book.
I was a typical draftee in 1955 attached to the 11th Airborne Division as a non-paratrooper because they were being rotated to Germany and were below strength. Subsequently, I was reassigned to a regular unit in Germany. I developed a respect for the Airborne because of my experiences in both types of units in the Army.
While in the 11th I was assigned to Battalion Hdqtrs and worked for Sgt Major Del Prior who was with the 82nd, made 2 combat jumps during WWII and was at Anzio. I will always remember the respect he received by everyone at heqtrs.
Louis Ruttkay
May 15, 2007 at 2:31 AM
LTC Megellas,
I just finished my first reading of All The Way To Berlin. I think it’s the best writing of the combat vet’s experience during WW Two that I’ve ever read. Thank you for your service and sacrifice. Thanks also to the 82nd Airborne, the 504th, and all of your comrades-in-arms. It is astounding what you went through.
God bless.
John Brewer
May 16, 2007 at 8:32 PM
I just finished reading your book All the Way to Berlin. Best war book ive read so far. I read your book when we had to do a report in history class. Im presenting my report tomorrow.
P.S. Thanks for fighting with the 82d
Greetings,
Tyler Anderson
June 26, 2007 at 7:19 PM
Dear Lt. James,
I enjoyed your book very much. Cogratulations and thank you for keeping the world better than it could have been. I am from Brazil and I would like to know if you have any kind of contact to Brazilians troops in Italy? Did they do well?
Best Reagrds
Homero Sousa
July 3, 2007 at 10:17 PM
Dear Mr. Megellas,
I just finished reading your book and I was truly impressed by it. I enjoyed the first hand accounts of your and the other trooper’s experiences and the realistic view you expressed on the abilities of front line troops. The chapter you wrote on the general who wanted the troops closer to the river in Germany and his self-importance resulted in the deaths of the soldiers really moved me. The fact that the 82nd participated in missions that they knew were not needed, but still carried them out is a tribute to the true soldiers spirit. Thank you for all you have accomplished and taking the time to write your story. If your ever in Colorado, I’d like to buy you a cup, thank you again for writing the book I enjoy reading about WW II. God bless you,
JP
July 4, 2007 at 8:28 PM
Dear Mr. Megellas,
I read your book, it impressed me very much!
I read a lot of personal books of world war two, but this was by far the best! I want to say many things about the feelings it makes loose in me, but I’m not such a good writer at all, I just don’t have any words for it. also my English is not very good because I’m from the Netherlands, Nijmegen to be specific. Therefore it impress me even more! I’ve read it a while ago but I’m still impressed by it and can’t stop thinking about it.
I admire you and your boys/comrads so much and I’m very thankfull for the things you and your man have done! You and them are so brave, have so much courage and that for such a young men/boys!
I wish you all the best
Kevin Lemmens
July 11, 2007 at 12:15 PM
I read some on the WWII Airborne also; particularly the 82nd Airborne Division, an outstanding outfit that imho fought harder with less recognition than any division in WWII. That is one reason the CMOH for Maggie’s heroism at Herresbach needs to be awarded. He has earned it and the entire 82nd Airborne Division deserves that recognition.
Here’s a note from another Paratrooper hero: There is only one combat Paratrooper left in my hometown of Prescott, Wisconsin. He is Gene “Popeye” Tronnier, wounded at Chosin with the 187 ARCT, one serious Rakkasan who is extremely well-read on Airborne Forces. “Pops” calls “All the Way to Berlin” the best book ever written about the Airborne.
ATW,
Tom Laney, Editor
Badger Airborne News
August 8, 2007 at 7:30 PM
Hi I met You in the Dallas Airport And you signed a book for me (I’m 14 and going into eighth grade) I finished the book and I could not put it down You not only were a great Soldier your a great writer. Anyway the book was wonderful and the things you and your men did were amazing like the crossing of the Waal River. I’m sorry to here in the Epiloge that some of your friends died. After meeting you I started the book on the plane and metting you really helped me comrehend the book (I can’t really put it into words though) But mainly I want to thank for what you did and what every man who fought in WWII did you brought down the faces of teirny and I want to thank you for doing that You are a very brave man. And well… just thank you very much You are my hero. And I only Have four in this Big world and you are Number one. The others are Richard Winters of the 101 airborne in WWII, Roy Rogers, and John Wayne.
Thank you again,
Josh Sutherlin
August 22, 2007 at 2:06 PM
LTC Megellas,
I recently had the honor and privilege to meet and speak with you at the Dallas/Fort Worth Airport on August 16th, 2007. I had already read your book and instantly recognized you. As a former member of the 82nd Airborne (1994-2006) I served as a Non Commissioned Officer with the Field Artillery supporting the 1st 504th PIR (Red Devils) then as an Officer flying UH-60 Blackhawk’s. I remember reading and learning about the Division and the paratroopers who served prior to myself. There are many great paratroopers who have served this great unit and there are very few who could even come close to the heroics of yourself. I have served several combat tours with the 82nd and would not want to go to war with any other unit. There is truly a bond that exists with paratrooper (former and current) that other soldiers can not understand or even relate to. Thank you again for your taking your time to speak with me last week and for the autographed book.
ATW!
CW3 Scott Ritchey
September 8, 2007 at 2:45 PM
Mr Megellas.
Sir. Just Read Your Book. all the way to Berlin.
A True Graphic Account And A Rivetting Read.
I Thought I Was there with you While Reading It.
We Here In England owe You a Lot.
Thankyou And God Bless.
Graham Lawson, Nottingham, England.
September 13, 2007 at 11:17 AM
Mr. Megallas,
You were kind enough to autograph your book, All the way to Berlin, at DFW. I mentioned to you that my uncle was also at the Bulge. He too was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross, Silver Star, and Presidential Unit Citation. His unit received the the Fourragere. BIRDS OF A FEATHER DO FLOCK TOGETHER. I will remain forever grateful for your extraordinary sacrifice. In a world in dire need of true heroes,I thank you for teaching the current generations what truly happened at that pivotal time in history.
With appreciation and admiration,
Jan Newsome
October 28, 2007 at 7:53 PM
Dear Sir,
I want to thank you and your airborne guys for your extraordinary service to military science.
Valentin Vasilescu
November 29, 2007 at 6:20 PM
LTC Megellas,
I had the privilege to meet and speak with you at the Dallas/Fort Worth Airport on August 16th, 2007. I finished your book and want to not only thank you for your sacifice but for your continued service to our great country. My father served in WWII, Korea and Vietnam. He lost a brother in the Pacific during WWII. My brother has served and I have served in the US Army proudly.
Thank you for your service and great book.
Best Regards,
Hector M. Rodriguez
SGT IIICorp. Engineers
December 26, 2007 at 2:08 PM
On the night of december 21 2007, we (the crew of a Dutch KDC-10) had the honor to bring LTC Megallas to Kandahar Airfield, Afghanistan. From there he started a tour to visit U.S. soldiers. For us, it was a very special flight because it was the first that a KDC-10 landed there, but even more for the reason that we had LTC Megellas on board! So much respect for a man like that! Thanks for all you have done in the past!
Best regards,
André de Fouw
FE KDC-10 RNLAF
April 12, 2008 at 6:28 AM
Mr Megellas,
I met you very briefly in the DFW airport a week ago on Friday the 5th of April. You autographed a copy of your book for me and complimented me on being an Air Force brat and a true history and WWII afficianatto. I have been here in Dallas for work so have not had much time to read but am currently reading about your experiences at Anzio. I would love the opportunity to speak with you personally about what life was like for the soldier at the front. I have the utmost respect for what you and so many others have done to shape the world as it is. I look forward to finishing your book and reading through it a 2nd time. I have to fly out of DFW again here on the 17th so I hope I have the opportunity to see you again. Thank you for writing your personal memories of the war and not holding anything back. If you are willing please email me to have a conversation.
May 4, 2008 at 4:01 AM
Dear Mr Megellas,
On Aug. 4th, 2005, we had the privilege of meeting you at Miami Airport, where we purchased a copy of “All the way to Berlin” and took a picture of our family with you. I recall how astounded was I when you told us that you battled at the Bulge. After reading the book we learnt that you were also at Anzio and Market Garden! For all of us that were not even born then, and also for us Mexicans, it is a matter of deep, deep gratitude that people like you were able to fight effectively in that very necessary war. Please receive again, after our brief personal acquaintance, our very best wishes for your health and well-being. I write on behalf of my wife Totina and our five children.
May 5, 2008 at 4:53 PM
Dear Mr. Megellas,
This is in regards to Michael, a young student of mine, who recently phoned you with some questions.
Every year I assigned a homework project that requires students to interview someone from the World War II era. My objective is always to introduce my students to the treasure trove of personal history that relatives, neighbors, and acquaintances hold and to bring a better understanding of shared history between generations. I just wanted to thank you for taking the time to speak with Mike. He was so proud of his interview and was so eager to share it with the class. In a larger sense, I think you made an impression on him that will never be forgotten. He is a special young man who I have been lucky enough to have in class this year. I just wanted to say thank you for your service and for taking the time to share your story. Barbara Kerr
May 30, 2008 at 6:05 PM
Sir,
We met you at your DFW book signing in May. As a former Marine – I really enjoyed the unit level view, and the personal perspectives of your book. I have 100’s of books on WWII and yours is a real keeper, in the class of “The Forgotten Soldier” by Guy Sajer. Awesome.
Thank you for your past and present service. I look forward to someday visiting the Waal river – and will certainly recall the American heros who fought there.
John
June 13, 2008 at 3:43 AM
Sir,
I am an active duty Marine infantry officer, and previously I was a 11 Bravo in the US Army (jump school qualified). I just finished your book, I could not put it down. I joined the Army in large part because of General Gavin’s On to Berlin which I read in High School.
It never ceases to amaze me what you and your comarades endured and accomplished. Your courage and fortitude under pressure will never be equaled. Having spent some time under fire your service amazes me even more.
God Bless you and your men, we all owe you thanks.
Major Jeff Tennen
USMC
June 14, 2008 at 9:41 PM
Col. Megellas
My wife and I took a recent vacation to Italy and my father, who met you at the Dallas airport, gave me your book to read on the trip. It was an outstanding story of your experiences but more importantly it was an honor to read and share with others. You gave my father a business card with your contact information on it but it has been misplaced.
I would like to purchase another copy of your book, signed if possible, and present it to the Vice-President of our company, also a retired Army officer, as a thank-you gift.
I hope this request finds you in great health and thank you for your service to our country. You are a true inspiration.
Kirk Ainsworth
July 9, 2008 at 9:39 PM
Dear Mr. Megellas,
Yesterday i downloaded your two Pritzer Military Library podcast’s. I have just now ordered your book and i’m looking forward to reading it.
I live in The UK and have the honour of knowing Billy Grey who was on the first glider at Pegasus bridge on D-Day.
As a 40 year old i feel not enough is done in our country to remember what men such as yourself did for the world over 60 years ago.
I would like to thank you & wish you health and happiness sir.
Mark Cotton
July 31, 2008 at 8:57 PM
I am currently in 1st battalion, 504th PIR, as was my grandfather, William Walton Kitchin, in WWII. LTC Megellas knew my grandfather, and mentioned him briefly in his book, I wanted to know if there was any way to contact LTC Megellas in hopes of getting some more information about my grandfather, as I never got to know him, he passed when I was 6. Any help would be much appreciated.
October 1, 2008 at 9:49 PM
Dear Mr. Megellas:
A serendipitous encounter at the Dallas Fort Worth airport on June, 2008, allowed me to meet you and obtain your book.
I thanked you for the service to our country.
We who love our country, especially those of us who were born somewhere else and experienced such things as communism first hand, say such things, thinking we understand your sacrifices and your horrific experiences.
Now, having read your book, I wish I could see you again and say this to you with a better understanding of what you did for us.
Not having been involved in the forces, I wonder how I would have acted under such inhumane circumstances, as you and many brave men have .
Being a teacher at a high school and a college, I feel besides teaching math and astronomy, that my mission is also to remind our poorly educated youth of the countless sacrifices that have given them the freedom they enjoy.
During our daily pledge of allegiance, we have some students who dare to not stand to respect our flag and what it stands for. I remind them that if they are to remain in my class they must stand up and give thanks to counless brave men and women who fought and are still fighting, so that we remain free.
I will remember the accounts in your book for the rest of my life.
I hope your life will be a long one and a happy one.
Thank you.
Mark Cabaj
October 7, 2008 at 6:59 PM
Dear Mr. Megellas:
At first I would like to thank you for what you and many others have done for us, thanks to you we can live in freedom. We are from Holland.
But i have a question for you about the following:
I and my wife, we adopted a soldier of the world war 2 on the cemetery on Margraten in The Netherlands, that means that we go many times a year to the cemetery to give our soldier flowers and a word of thanks.
The soldier of us was also with the 504th prcht inf 82nd abn div/company F, 2nd bataljon.
His name is Gentzel Richard H.
We are now looking for information of him or a picture.
Now we are wondering if you knew him or somebody who visits this site.
We did a lot of reseach put can’t find a lot of him.
Maybe you can help us.
Sincerely,
Dennis Hermsen
The Netherlands
October 24, 2008 at 8:44 PM
Dear mr Megellas,
A while ago there was an article in paper of you and your book . I directly went to the shop to buy it because WWII has my intrest.
I have read it and it is/was very impressive to read what all of you went through for the liberation of Europe. We are still very greatful for this.
I have read a some impressive books. Bedford Boys, Batlle of the Bulge both Alex Kersaw. D-Day and From D-Day to Berlin both Steve Ambrose.
Last year me and my family went to Omaha and Utah Beach in Normandie on the 6th of June to visit a ceremony. Also very impressive.
I really would like your book to be signed by you. If there will be an aportunaty to get it signed I will do it.
Pieter Paul van Heijningen (38)
Netherlands
December 28, 2008 at 1:31 AM
Over a year ago I purchased your book at the DFW airport and you were kind enough to autograph it for my father. He is still talking about what a great story you tell. Thank you so much for what you have done for our country and for the role model you provide.
God Bless,
Kathie Dalton
Dallas Texas
January 30, 2009 at 3:11 AM
Dear Mr.Megellas,
My name is Will Frederickson. I am a seventh grader who is reading your book. My dad was at an airport in Dallas and met you there. You autographed your book for me. I am reading it right now and I love it. It’s cool to see that interview at the Brothers In Arms press and know what you are talking about from reading your book. Thank you for autographing it for me and it is an awesome book.
Sincerely,
Will Frederickson
March 4, 2009 at 1:27 PM
Dear Col. Megellas,
I have just discovered your existence and am thrilled to be able to read about (and hear!) someone who served in the 504th in WWII. My uncle, Sgt. Bob Koelle, was in the 504th and was killed on September 20, 1944 in Nijmagen.
My mother was his little sister and I grew up hearing about him as a big brother. Only when I became an adult, did I learn more about Operation Market Garden and now, finding your website, I’ve seen some of your interviews.
I just wanted to say thank you and God bless you for all that you have done for the country and all that you are doing for our military today. I look forward to getting your book and read about the 504th!
Sincerely,
Peggy Shelly
March 11, 2009 at 6:17 PM
HAPPY 92nd BIRTHDAY, COLONEL!! I received your inscribed book yesterday and cannot tell you how much it means to me and to my family, on behalf of my uncle, Robert Koelle, KIA 9/20/44 Nijmegen. Wishing you all the best and many more years of good health and inspiration to the rest of us.
Warmest regards to you and your Carol,
Peggy Shelly
July 19, 2009 at 3:22 AM
I have read your book 3x and have enjoyed it each time. As a 37 year old with a 96 year grandmother who was a WAVE this era of history is important to me. Your book told the combat soldiers story. Never have I felt closer to the horror of war and the bonding of such brave men. No one unless they have been in combat can understand either.
Thank you for such a wonderful book and of most important your willingness to defend this great country.
July 30, 2009 at 5:07 AM
My father was in the 504th Parachute Infantry, Company G, and took part in Operation Market Garden. He was captured sometime around September 28, and was a POW until his prisoner camp was liberated, although I understand he escaped a couple of times, and was even kept by a Dutch family during one of those periods of freedom. My Dad died in 1953, when I was two years old, and I know little about his military service. After way too many years, I’m trying to find out more. Can someone offer suggestions to find details of my father’s service. I submitted a request to the Army for my father’s military records, but it seems his records were at a facility that had a major fire in the 70’s, and unlikely to exist. Anything would be helpful. Thank you.
November 7, 2009 at 8:36 PM
Col. Megellas,
It was great seeing you and getting an autograph at the AUSA convention in Washington, DC in Oct 2009. I also served with the 82nd Airborne Div. Out of the eight years served I spent four years with the 1/325 Airborne Reg. and another four years with the 307th Medical Battalion. I was the 82nd Abn Div NCO of the year for 1983. I spent another 11 years with verious other Special Operations units at Ft. Bragg, NC. I want to say thank you for the years you served and the WWII history you are still able to provide to so many. It was an honor to meet you. I would very much like to get a signed copy of your book if that’s possible. Please let me know how I can obtain a copy.
Sincerely,
MSG(R) Wendell Williams