Faces of Our Valley
Frank Brandon: A Veteran’s Century of Courage and Resilience
Hidden Springs Senior Living has been bustling, celebrating a remarkable milestone: Frank Brandon’s 104th birthday. Frank’s spirit remains strong despite his age, and his life story is a testament to resilience and dedication. Frank recently sat down with our publisher, Mike McCool, to share his incredible journey.
Born on March 5, 1920, in New York City, Frank faced early adversity. At just four and a half years old, he lost his mother to complications during childbirth, a tragedy compounded by the challenges of the era. His father, a designer of ladies’ hats, moved the family to Toronto, but Frank and his three brothers ended up in an orphanage in New York when their visas expired.
Frank’s early years were tumultuous, marked by frequent moves between various guardians. At 16, he had to fend for himself, leading him to trade school, where he learned printing. His hands bear the scars of his youth, a testament to the hardships he endured and the resilience he developed.
Drafted into the U.S. Army at the onset of World War II, Frank chose to serve in the Army Air Corps. His service during the war spanned multiple roles, including a combat glider pilot—a position fraught with danger. Frank’s glider missions were critical, supporting airborne operations by delivering troops and supplies behind enemy lines.
One of the most harrowing experiences Frank recounted was his near-deployment on D-Day. Scheduled to be part of the first wave of glider landings, his mission was scrubbed at the last moment due to intelligence reports of a German Panzer division in the landing zone. The disappointment of missing the mission became relief as he learned about the heavy casualties sustained during the invasion.
A significant part of his life story is his time as a prisoner of war. During a mission in Holland, his glider was shot down, leading to his capture. For eight months, he endured the harsh conditions of a POW camp, a period that tested his resolve and strength. The experience left a lasting impact, but Frank emerged with an unbreakable spirit.
After completing his military service, Frank continued to serve the Department of Defense, this time as a civilian. His dedication didn’t end with World War II; he remained with the Department for over 50 years. During this time, he made significant contributions, especially in peacetime, working in various roles, such as a management analyst and chief of training. Frank’s post-service career took him to multiple locations, including a notable tenure at the Pentagon. His expertise and unwavering commitment earned him numerous promotions, culminating in a ceremony honoring his extensive service.
In later years, Frank’s life took a quieter turn. He moved to Fairfax County with his wife, who was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease and dementia. Their journey brought them to Hidden Springs Senior Living, where they found a supportive community. Frank continued to be a devoted husband until her passing eight years ago.
Despite the challenges of aging, including a battle with COVID-19, Frank’s faith has been a constant source of strength. He attributes his longevity and resilience to his unwavering trust in the Lord, a sentiment he shares with a humble heart.
As we celebrate Frank Brandon’s 104th birthday, his story is a powerful reminder of the resilience of the human spirit. Frank’s life is a tapestry of courage, faith, and perseverance, from the hardships of his youth to the bravery of his wartime service and the devotion to his family. His journey is a testament to his indomitable will to overcome adversity and live a life of purpose and dedication.
Happy 104th birthday, Frank. Your life story inspires us all, and we look forward to celebrating many more milestones with you.
Faces of Our Valley
A Veteran’s Journey: Ron Parsons Reflects on Service, Career, and Love
At Hidden Springs Senior Living, our publisher, Mike McCool, had the pleasure of sitting with Ron Parsons, a 93-year-old veteran with a lifetime of stories to share. Born on October 7, 1930, Ron has lived through some of the most pivotal moments in modern history.
Early Life and Military Service
Ron enlisted in the Marines in October 1948, right after graduating high school. He was among the early Marines sent to Korea, where he experienced the harsh cold of the Korean winters. “It was something like 20 degrees below zero at night,” Ron recalled, emphasizing the toughness required to endure such conditions.
Trained as a field radio operator, Ron mastered Morse code, advancing to a high-speed operator capable of handling 35 words per minute. His duties extended beyond radio operations; he often carried heavy equipment and weapons, adapting to the challenging terrains and situations.
Post-Korea Life
After Korea, Ron’s last duty post was at Quantico, Virginia. His three-year enlistment was initially extended by a year due to the Korean War. He finished his service in late August 1952 and transitioned to civilian life. In 1955, he married his first wife, whom he met at Quantico. They enjoyed a long engagement while Ron pursued further education.
A Varied Career
Ron’s career was as diverse as it was impressive. He started as a Marine, then an art student, followed by a stint as a state police trooper. Ultimately, he became a practicing lawyer, a profession he retired from at age 65. “I left that at age 65, and my wife and I retired,” Ron said, reflecting on the transition.
Sadly, Ron’s retirement came sooner than planned due to his wife’s illness. Diagnosed with a terminal disease, she wished to live fully despite her condition. They bought a 40-foot sailboat, embarking on adventures along the intercoastal waterway. “We didn’t pull into marinas very often. We slept on the boat and cooked on the boat,” Ron shared, illustrating their adventurous spirit.
Finding Love Again
After his first wife passed away, Ron reconnected with an old friend, Miriam. They had known each other since the 1950s, and their shared history led to a new chapter in Ron’s life. “I proposed to her, and she accepted, surprisingly,” Ron said with a smile. They have been married for nearly 25 years.
Life at Hidden Springs
Today, Ron and Miriam live in Hidden Springs, where the community loves them well. Miriam, a talented pianist, entertains residents by playing the electronic piano before dinner each evening. “Everybody knows Miriam now, and they love to hear her play,” Ron said proudly.
Reflecting on his age, Ron admits that living to 94 is not something he expected. “When you’re younger, you think 94 is so far in the future,” he mused. Despite the challenges of aging, Ron is grateful for the life he’s led and the experiences he’s had.
Final Thoughts
Ron Parsons’ life story is about resilience, love, and adventure. From his service in Korea to his varied careers and his dedication to family, Ron exemplifies a life well-lived. As he said, “I’m lucky to be in the shape that I’m in,” and it’s clear that his spirit and stories will continue to inspire those around him.
Faces of Our Valley
Veteran Tales: Franklin Selzer Shares Wisdom and Memories
In a heartwarming initiative to honor the wisdom and experiences of our older veterans, the Royal Examiner’s Mike McCool recently interviewed Franklin Selzer, an 83-year-old veteran, at Hidden Springs Senior Living. This interview is part of an ongoing series aimed at capturing and sharing the rich life stories of our nation’s heroes.
Franklin Selzer, who grew up in Cleveland, Ohio, shared his journey from a young boy setting pins and caddying to a distinguished military career that spanned over three decades. “I think I’m 83, last time I checked. 1938, what does that make me? I think that’s about right,” Franklin chuckled as he recounted his life.
Franklin’s path to military service was marked by determination and resilience. He recalled his early jobs and stint as a shipping clerk before the Air Force offered him an opportunity. “The Air Force offered me an opportunity, and the Academy was calling. I enlisted first to get a double chance,” he explained. Franklin persevered despite facing challenges, including a dental mishap that nearly derailed his dreams. “This is a wonderful country, and you get those opportunities as long as you stay with it,” he reflected.
In 1956, Franklin enlisted and eventually rose through the ranks to become an airbase commander by 1971. His story is one of triumph and subtle vindication. “I was able to come back and be the commander of that airbase, and I can invite those people to our parties and put them at the head table. Oh, how are you doing this evening? It’s so good to see you,” he shared with a knowing smile.
Franklin’s career also included significant contributions at the Pentagon, where he was instrumental in establishing the United States Transportation Command. “They said, Frank, we’ll do something that never happened before. We’re going to establish the United States Transportation Command,” he recalled. Despite skepticism from some quarters, Franklin and his team succeeded, with his superiors recognizing his efforts.
Reflecting on his military career, Franklin emphasized the importance of discipline and service. “I think our young people today should get into the military. You’ll learn discipline. You’ll learn how to brush your teeth and shine your shoes,” he advised. His words serve as a reminder of the values instilled through military service.
After retiring from the Air Force as a full colonel, Franklin transitioned to a second career with the airlines, continuing to serve the country in a different capacity. He eventually retired at 62 and chose to settle in Front Royal, appreciating the community and the quality of life at Hidden Springs. “This is a beautiful place. If you know your situation, I would tell anyone what you will do with a big house all by yourself?” he pondered.
Franklin’s days are filled with staying in touch with friends worldwide, taking walks, and enjoying simple pleasures. “I write things to people, and sometimes people want to pay me for it, but I don’t need to. I’ve got a nice retirement. And why should I take money for something I don’t need?” he said.
His story, filled with wisdom and a touch of humor, is a testament to the enduring spirit of our veterans. As the interview concluded, Franklin expressed his contentment with life at Hidden Springs. “The people are nice, the food is good, the facility is wonderful. What more could you ask for?”
Franklin Seltzer’s story is a tribute to our veterans’ resilience, service, and wisdom. His experiences remind us of the sacrifices and lessons learned by those who have served our country.
For more stories like Franklin’s, stay tuned as we continue to bring you the voices of our cherished veterans.
Faces of Our Valley
WATCH: Faces of Our Valley – Selah Theatre Project, Glory Bea!
Selah Theatre Project presents GLORY BEA!-A SHENANDOAH CHRISTMAS, written by Rich Follett and Larry Dahlke. Directed by Rich Follett.
WHEN: Fridays: December 8th and December 15th at 7PM
Saturdays: December 9th and December 16th at 7 PM
Sundays: December 10th and December 17th at 3 PM
TICKETS: General Admission: $12 online/$15 at the door
Students/Seniors: $8 online/$10 at the door
WHERE: 30 East 8th Street, Front Royal, VA 22630
MORE INFO: Phone: 540-686-5185
Website: http://www.selahtheatreproject.org
Faces of Our Valley
Local singer/songwriters shine as one of “The 9”
Wow! The Shenandoah Valley has some amazing music talent to recognize and appreciate. A fabulous collection of singer/songwriters performed on Saturday (November 11) night at Bright Box – Out of the Box in Winchester, VA. The show was originally created by Justin Trawick in 2008. Nine singer/songwriters rotate during the show with the goal of providing the audience with rich, varied entertainment.
This Winchester show was hosted by Emma Rowley. The evening featured music by: Matt Chellini, Alex Taughinbaugh, Joe Martin (from Slow Creek), Rich Follett, Emma Rowley, Erik Burnham (from the Plank Stompers), Sally Mae Foster, Blue Ajay and Cassi Raye. Together these folks were, “THE 9.” It was truly a delightful show of all sorts of music, happy, introspective, funny and instrumental. Be sure to like their page to follow where the next show might be! fb.me/wearethe9
A special treat to see Rich Follett take the stage. Rich is a local to Front Royal and much loved for his acting, writing, poetry, music, education and overall support of the arts here in the Shenandoah Valley. Always a crowd favorite bringing both a tear and a smile with his words and sweet sound. To see Rich in person for yourself, come out on November 18th to Open Mic with A Cause held at Open House on Main Street in Front Royal (213 E Main Street) at 7pm. This open mic is a fundraiser for ROTH of FR helping homeless people in Warren County.
Exciting news was mentioned during the evening that several of the artists have recently been signed to Bird Dog Records in Wincester, VA (www.birddogrecords.net). Rich Follett and another Front Royal favorite, Sally Mae Foster are two who have signed and will be recording with Bird Dog Records.
Watch this video for a sampling of WE ARE THE 9. SINGER. SONGWRITER SERIES from November 11th in Winchester, VA at Bright Box – Out of the Box. http://www.brightboxwinchester.com
Faces of Our Valley
153rd Anniversary of the Second Battle of Kernstown Battlefield
Sat, Jul 22 153rd Anniversary of the Second Battle of Kernstown Battlefield walking tours, Pritchard House tours, Artillery Annex tours. Other special events to be announced.
Watch this interview with Gary Auerbach with Steve Vaughn, Treasurer for the Kernstown Battlefield Association. The Anniversary of the 2nd Battle is Monday July 24 and activities/events can be found at kernstownbattle.org.
SECOND BATTLE OF KERNSTOWN
July 24, 1864
In July 1864 the main focus of the war in Virginia had shifted to the Richmond area where the Union army had hopes of swiftly ending the war. Only secondary attention was being paid to the Shenandoah Valley with the only Union presence being Gen. George Crook in Winchester with a force of less than 12,000. With the tragic loss in 1863 of Gen. “Stonewall” Jackson who died at Chancellorsville from friendly fire from his own pickets, the Confederate forces in the Valley were now led by Lt. Gen. Jubal A. Early.
Having learned of a severely diminished Union presence in the Valley, on July 24th Gen. Early pushed north from Strasburg toward Winchester with nearly 17,000 troops. His intent was to push Gen. Crook’s force out of the city and out of the Valley. Crook, believing that only a small cavalry force faced him, ordered his units to push south from Winchester and scatter the Confederates.
Once again, Union artillery graced the heights of Pritchard’s Hill to support the Union advance. Crook’s regiments made it as far as the Opequon Church just south of Pritchard’s farm in Kernstown before being forced back by Gen. Early’s amassed force. As they pulled back, fierce fighting tore at the Union ranks lined up behind the stone wall along the entrance lane to the Pritchard farm. Union Col. James Mulligan tried to rally his troops behind the wall but they were heavily outflanked by the crack troops of Gen. Breckenridge pouring in from the east, Gen. Ramseur advancing from the west and Gen. Gordon coming directly from the south.
During his stand behind the stone wall, Col. Mulligan was mortally wounded by Confederate sharpshooters. As his troops attempted to carry him from the field, sensing defeat and his own mortality, he admonished them to “Lay me down and save the flag”. Thus began the retreat of the Union force north into Maryland and on to Pennsylvania.
When the field of battle again became calm, Col. Mulligan was carried into the Pritchard house immediately behind the battle line. There he was nursed and cared for by the Pritchards but his wounds were severe and he died three days later. Some years afterward, Samuel Pritchard remembered of Mulligan “He died in my arms. I was holding his head up at the time he died.”
The Second Battle of Kernstown was a decisive Confederate victory, but it was to be the last such in the Valley. Gen. Jubal Early’s victorious Confederates inflicted 1185 casualties in smashing Gen. George Crook’s Army of West Virginia, clearing the Valley again of Union troops, and opening the way for Early’s route into Pennsylvania. In Washington, President Lincoln moved to put the entire Valley area under the command of Gen. Philip Sheridan. The battles of Third Winchester, Cedar Creek, and the Great Burning of the Shenandoah Valley were to follow.
In essence, the Second Battle of Kernstown marked the beginning of Sheridan’s Valley Campaign of 1864 effectively destroying the breadbasket of the Confederacy tilting the balance of power in the Valley in favor of the Union. The Shenandoah Valley…its families, its farms, its livelihood…was left in ruins.
In 1862, Stonewall Jackson had said “If this Valley is lost, this war is lost.” Nine months after Early’s victory at Kernstown the war ended at Appomatox.
Faces of Our Valley
Faces of Our Valley – WhiteHouse Foods – Gary Auerbach
White House Foods is a family owned company located in Winchester, VA. They have been processing apples and making quality apple products Since 1908. With a strong heritage and generations of traditions they take pride in expanding their orchards for the next generations.
Contact Gary at: gary@frisbeeguy.com
ABOUT GARY: They call me Mr.Frisbee or the Frisbee Guy
For those of you who don’t know the whole story here it is in a nutshell:
After winning the world freestyle frisbee championships in 1995, I started teaching frisbee skills and telling frisbee stories at schools and summer camps as well as demonstrating my techniques at trade shows, parades, picnics, corporate team building events, sports banquets and more.
In 19+ years I’ve probably seen close to half a million kids, parents, coaches! My goal is to show people that learning to have fun with a frisbee, in the form of simple tricks that everyone can do, will make them want to become lifelong frisbee players…like me!
While I’ve also played at four world club championships in Ultimate and play Disc Golf regularly I know from years of experience that tricks are what really captivates the hearts and minds of kids of all ages.
For nearly 20 years I’ve been showing people what they can do with frisbees and, to me, that is the single most important part of my shows. By letting them discover and imagine what is possible they may also become lifelong frisbee players.
Audiences are forever amazed, enriched and inspired by my frisbee presentation, as well as educated and entertained, and always at an age appropriate level.
CALL ME FOR BIRTHDAY PARTIES…YOUTH EVENTS…TEAM BUILDING: 1-877-477-2555
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