Texas South Plains War Stories

Every veteran has a story to tell—often ones they have not told their own families. But as one vet in this collection of original interviews succinctly said of his combat experiences: "Some things are better left unsaid." Documenting recollections from survivors of World War II, Korea, Vietnam and other conflicts—all residents of the Texas Panhandle—this book presents narratives from men and women whose young lives, for good or ill, were defined by their participation in warfare in service to their country.

“Searing, inspiring, and immensely readable…this is oral history at its finest. Texas South Plains War Stories goes far in answering the first obligation we all owe our combat veterans—which is, simply, to remember.” —Hampton Sides, New York Times bestselling author of Ghost Soldiers and On Desperate Ground“Superbly researched and splendidly written, Texas South Plains War Stories is a stirring tribute to the men and women who have risen to the challenge of serving in America’s armed forces in times of war. Larry Williams and Katherine McLamore have done us a great service by vividly capturing the memories, service and sacrifice of ordinary citizens who have answered the call of duty. This outstanding book is also a poignant reminder that our freedom comes at a high price that heroic Americans have paid in blood since our founding.” —Carlo D’Este, author of Patton: A Genius for War“Larry Williams and Katherine McLamore have assembled more than the notes and reminiscences of a scattering of men who fought for their country. This book is the heart of our collective conscience, the stories we must know, and those we must pass on to the future. The accounts in this marvelous book come from so many who are no longer here, who can no longer tell their stories. For the men included here from a more recent age, their stories ring no less true, and are no less important. Their day will come as well, and again, we must remember. This is a marvelous book.” —Jeff Shaara, author of Gods and Generals and To Wake the Giant

Larry A. Williams is a U.S. Air Force veteran and a retired businessman. He has written articles for the Army Chapter of the Chosin Few Newsletter, the Lubbock Avalanche Journal, the Lubbock Magazine and the Lubbock Senior Link Magazine. He lives in Lubbock, Texas.Katherine McLamore has recruited and trained hospice volunteers for over a decade. She has written for the Lubbock Avalanche Journal, Prize 31 Ministries, and the Lubbock Senior Link Magazine. She lives in Lubbock, Texas.