Book Review: Finally, A Parade for You by, Molly Burton.

Finally, A Parade for You is a collection of mini-biographies of  United States war veterans who served their country during the Vietnam War. These brave people sacrificed their peaceful lives and joined one of the many life-changing cultural upheavals of the mid-20th century. They were not famous, nor from privileged backgrounds. Today, most of them still battle Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), and far too many are ill with such diseases as diabetes, cancer, and other related disorders. They now find peace, and though they struggle with it, grace.

At the end of the biographical section are two chapters on PTSD and Toxic Exposure (ie. Agent Orange). A small history, symptoms, individual experiences, and ways to get help either through the Veterans Administration (VA), or through private medical personnel/complimentary health care will be offered. The author’s own tips for the VA personnel to be more helpful to veterans of all battles and foreign /domestic deployments are included.

The stories contained in this book were an act of faith on the part of the veterans who shared their stories. Difficult to face because of the horrors endured and ongoing, the telling and re-telling of their tale during this writing has actually brought some measure of healing, as repetition of an experience makes it just that: a story of long ago. Please honor them before it’s too late, as they are dying every day. Let their stories be inspiring and healing. This ‘Parade’ is for all of us.

My Thoughts:

My younger brother is a true history buff. He has collected a number of historical books about war and our Nation's Finest, the veterans! Whether it is spreading information to others, meeting local veterans in our community, or expanding his knowledge, I knew this book was ideal for him and his love our our soldiers.

Author Molly Burton captured the life and tales of these beautiful people in each page. As a psychology major in college, I adored the discussions of PTSD within the book. It is important we talk about this topic more because still to this day, our veterans are suffering the affects of it. Spreading psychological knowledge is something I hope all historical based books will begin to do more of as well. The legacies told within this beautiful biographical book will capture the readers heart and give us all a heroic view of strength.

Although this book is perfect for history lovers, I would recommend it to everyone. Keeping the wisdom of our past moving forward with each generation is so important. Honoring these veterans who never got to receive the recognition for their bravery and sacrifices is a beautiful thing. I hope you will pick up a copy today!

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Holiday Gift Guide - Lil' Troops - #Giveaway

Lil’ Troops are the ultimate collectible military action figures officially licensed by the U.S. Army. Each figure stands at 3” tall and comes with a non-violent accessory such as the American flag, night vision goggles, or water canteen, etc. A portion of each Lil' Troops sale also goes to support to U.S. Army Morale, Welfare and Recreation programs. 

My Thoughts

Lil' Troops are the perfect way to let kids have fun and support our troops at the same time. My son received the Alpha Squad set. It comes with three different action figures with moving arms and legs. They each have a different outfit.  Two are in different types of camo and another is dressed like a pilot. Each one is very detailed.

The set also comes with a variety of accessories including walkie talkies, guns, an even an American flag. The soldiers are designed to be able to hold these in their hands. Some are easier to actually get them to grip than others, but they do all fit in their hands with some prompting.

 I just love these action characters because they are fun to play with, but also because part of the purchase price goes to charities that benefit our veterans. This makes them a great gift for kids of all ages and for the men and women who have served our country.  One suggestion though, Lil' Troops. Add a few women soldiers to your lineup! 






The Giveaway

One lucky winner is going to receive a set of Lil' Troops (style selected at random).  To enter, just fill in the Giveaway Tools form below. This giveaway will end on 12/7/15. Open to the US only. The winner will be notified via email and will have 48 hours to reply. Thanks again to the sponsor for offering this fantastic prize.

Entry-Form