I have the best Facebook story (ever) to share with you! It has led to one of the most memorable introductions of my lifetime!
This story starts on a morning drive in the Czech Republic, from Prague to Nuremberg, Germany, in May (2018). My husband and I were traveling to board our first River boat cruise, on the Danube River. We stopped the the lovely town of Pilsen, Czech Republic.
We were immediately aware that an amazing celebration was happening in the town! We were overwhelmed by American flags flying everywhere, and the locals all wearing American flag hats, shirts, and military clothing. This was the town's annual celebration, on the day that US General George Patton, liberated the town from Nazi occupation during WW II. The celebration brought tears to our eyes...just to see this lovely town, so far from home...and so patriotic for anything USA, was very emotional!
We soon learned there was a military parade about to begin, and it was being led by General George Patton's grandson, George Patton Waters. We were beyond excited, as my paternal grandfather fought in one of General Patton's infantry during WW II.
I, of course, had my camera around my neck and photographed the town and parade. It was just amazing, and remains one of the absolute highlights of our trip!
Now, the lovely Facebook ending...later that day I posted an iphone photo from the parade, siting what a grand adventure it was. A friend from Mt. Pleasant, SC, saw my post and replied..."Maryanne, George Patton Waters is my neighbor"! OMG, I was astounded! On our trip to Charleston last week, we received an invitation to George Patton Water's home to meet he and his wife, and view the amazing memorabilia he has from his grandfather, US General George Patton.
To some of you this may seem trivial...to me, this was the opportunity of a lifetime! Pat and Martha were the most genuine and hospitable people that one could ever hope to meet. We spent quite a while with them, talking family history and viewing incredible historic items. I took photographs while there, several of which are posted here.
So, the moral of the story, from a photographer's perspective...never stop shooting! And, always share your memories (yes, on Facebook :). You just never know what life experiences are out there to be shared!
0 comments