Harry is a WWII Veteran, a two-time Purple Heart recipient, a photographer, a pipe collector, and a seasoned traveler (among many other things). As Katie’s Grandmother’s Boyfriend he has become a friend over the past few years, and the last time I was with him he gave me a tour of his Florida home. His home is filled with shelves and cases of dark room chemicals, bulbs, and every type of camera you can imagine. On the walls are photos of him and his wife in their twenties, the bowtie he wore in their wedding, the garter she wore, photos of him with his production crew, and the metals he earned in the war.

The most fascinating item in his home is a photo of his wife displayed next to his Purple Heart. In the war he had been carrying this photo in his gas mask and a bullet pierced through this photo and into his side. This photo is displayed proudly and lovingly in his room of memories. It was an honor to hear his stories of the war, talk about photography, and remember his wife.

Harry in his 20’s

One of two Purple Hearts Harry earned for his service

His bowtie, her garter

Just a couple from his collection

My favorite of these photos