Truly a 'Band of Brothers'
For decades your Ol' Editor has flirted with the idea of writing a non-fiction account of experiences during World War II, especially those of the 99th Infantry Division.
The OE has a multitude of material, enough to write several volumes. It's interesting stuff — at least to many.
A name was selected, based on the OE's love of Shakespeare's "Henry the Fifth" about the Battle of Agincourt — not far from where the 99th served in Belgium.
"Band of Brothers," a quotation from the play, seemed appropriate for many reasons. The 99th was, and is, truly a band of brothers. The young soldiers prevailed against overwhelming odds and conditions. Today those who survive continue to have a special bond that is unexplainable to all who have not been there.
The title was selected, then the late Stephen Ambrose used it for his highly successful book.
Now a news release promotes a book written by a former Chase Countian, using the quotation and making reference to combat veterans of the Battle of the Bulge as "a true band of brothers."
Author Kenneth Lenke, an unsung soldier from the Flint Hills, served without glory but "did his duty" as others.
His book traces the transition of a young draftee from the tallgrass prairie, one who traded his Eagle Scout badge for Army dog tags and the battlefields of Europe.
The narrative describes the grueling battles and the daily grind, poignant memories of combat and bravery that bring respect from readers.
The name he selected is his own serial number "U.S. Army Serial Number 37531447." It may be ordered at any bookstore, library, or online at 1stbooks.com
The book is respectfully dedicated to deceased servicemen whose names are engraved on the granite marker in front of the Chase County Courthouse at Cottonwood Falls.
Lenke says the granite marker "is a priceless legacy" to those who are "grateful that these soldiers committed themselves to fight for peace and freedom."
Lenke earned bachelor's and master's degrees at Emporia State University. A former physics instructor, he retired at Scottsdale, Ariz., where he enjoys studying the culture of American Southwest Indians.
— BILL MEYER
