"Camel Red" Set For Publication
A true story highlighting the life of World War II veteran and
BVA Life Member Lawrence (Larry) J. Heron and his family will
be released in both hard copy and paperback in early July 2004.
Authored by Greg Page, Camel Red is a story of love, loyalty,
sacrifice, and independence. The book introduces its readers to
Larry, a promising young athlete from Hopedale, Massachusetts,
who entertains dozens of college football scholarship offers and
possibilities to play baseball for the New York Yankees and Boston
Braves but who eventually goes to war.
Larry volunteers to unload mortar rounds from a truck in harms
way, an act that freed an entire batallion from a German "rat
trap." In the process, he loses both eyes and is wounded
so seriously that no one believes initially that he can survive.
His wounds resulted in surgeries he endured throughout his life
while still working to support his family.
Camel Red is told from the perspective of Larrys wife,
Azelia Noferi Heron, as she looks back on her life. The book is
published by iUniverse and contains a forward by former Senator
Bob Dole. It will be available through Barnes and Noble and other
major book outlets.
Larry Heron passed away in 1995 and was followed in death by
Azelia in 2000.
EBRC Sets for 35th Celebration
The Eastern Blind Rehabilitation Center will celebrate its 35th
anniversary July 15-16 at the West Haven, Connecticut, VA Medical
Center.
According to Sherryl Glinsky, event organizer, the celebration
will coincide with the annual alumni reunion and feature a festive
open house on July 15. Additional commemorative activities the
following day will include a ceremony with speeches by BVA National
President Neil Appleby, Executive Director Tom Miller, and longtime
EBRC volunteer Curtis Noel, a musical program, and a luncheon.
"We typically have 30-50 guests at the alumni reunions,
but we are anticipating close to 100 for the anniversary celebration,"
said Glinsky. "All alumni are welcome, but written invitations
were sent to all students who have attended West Haven within
the past five years."
For more information about the event, contact Sherryl Glinsky
at 203-932-5711, Ext. 4506.
Gem State Continues Handbook Offer
White Cane safety program handbooks are still available from
the Gem State Regional Group. According to Art Motz, regional
group president, the handbooks will continue to be distributed
for $10.00, which covers the cost of printing and mailing.
Developed by the regional group, the materials serve as a helpful
tool for blinded veterans involved in educating the public about
blindness. The handbook explains not only the history and purpose
of the white cane, but emphasizes its daily importance to the
safety and well-being of the blind. It also provides suggestions
for activities, resources for handouts, and recommendations for
running an effective white cane awareness program.
For more information, or to order a handbook, contact Regional
Group President Art Motz by email, motzart@cableone.net,
or call BVA Communications Coordinator Stuart Nelson at 800-669-7079.
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