Larry Bray in Hawaii late 1943.

The newlywed takes a time out for a little R&R. Larry received jungle training in Hawaii, help build a training facility and train Rangers (who would get credit for much of the work Larry and his outfit did). Most of the 20th infantry were from Missouri and were enthralled with the idea of swimming in the ocean, but inexperienced in the pounding surf and tides of the Pacific. A fellow soldier, Zeke MaCaskil (sp?), was caught in an undertow and pulled down and out into the raging ocean. Larry, singlehandedly swum out, caught Zeke and brought him back to the safety of the beach. Two years later when they were waiting to go home (based on a point system, so many points for medals etc, the more points the sooner you got home), Zeke said, "Larry you should have gotten the Soldier's Medal for saving me from drowning." What Larry did get for his efforts was every time they needed someone to swim across a rain swollen tropical river Larry got the call because he was, "The strongest swimmer in the outfit."

Larry wasn't the only one waiting for him to return as this faded picture attests. This small photo creased from the folded hands that held it as Bee fervently prayed for her husband's safety. For Bee holding this photo, taken shortly after their marriage, would be as close to touching him as she would get for over 2 years. Every crinkle and wrinkle is a testimony of her undying love for her Larry, a love that lives still in the eternities.

The Smith Brothers (No cough drops or beards)

Will, Dan, and Jake Smith 1947.

The Home Front
House where Dan Smith (and probably others) were born. Weedville, Elk County, Pa.