Passing of American Hero, "Band of Brothers" Inspiration, Richard 'Dick' Winters

Posted by Ronda Miller January 16, 2011 at 1:25 p.m.

Passing of American Hero, "Band of Brothers" Inspiration, Richard 'Dick' Winters

Richard 'Dick' Winters, the real life soldier who inspired the lead character in the television series, "Band of Brothers", passed away last week at the age of 92. He had specifically requested his demise not be made public until after a private service could be held.

The popular television program told the story of Winter and Easy Company of the 506th Parachute Infantry Regiment. Winter became the leader of Company E on D-Day, following the death of the company commander, during the Normandy invasion. Winter's company was Company E, 506th Regiment, 101st Airborne Division,

Winter, who was born January, 21st, 1918, studied economics at Franklin and Marshall College before his enlistment. He had suffered from Parkinson's disease.

On a more private note, our family is mourning the loss of another hero. My brother-in-law, Carl Dean Perry passed away on 1-11-11 on his 63rd birthday. He had served in Vietnam and survived malaria, loss of numerous soldiers and friends, carried shrapnel with him to the end, and eventually succumbed to the effects of Agent Orange. He had been on a heart transplant waiting list for several months.

I don't know if Richard Winters was survived by his wife, but I would like to share the poem I wrote on behalf of my brother-in-law if she is still living.

"Best Friends"

A lunar eclipse

and the first winter's snow

gave you the strength to finally let go.

Peace from within, a light touch on your skin,

the hand of your wife, she's been your best friend.

Go to the heavens tonight, you've fought your fight.

It's time for a new life away from this pain - we all shall mourn you.

Your struggle in distant lands nothing compared to what's been at hand.

Go in peace, my brother, my father, my husband, my friend.

Let it go now.

Go with the snow and the lunar eclipse.

Sent off with love and a final kiss from your wife.

She's been your best friend for most of your life.

http://nibuke,cleveland.com/com/advcleve/pm 29204/contentdeltail.htm?contentguid= XFdbyrSX

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RoeDapple (anonymous) says…

Just this morning I saw a picture about 40 years from the past of a buddy of mine standing next to his car who has since died . . . then later I ran across this . . seemed fitting.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q0gX-b...
January 16, 2011 at 2:20 p.m.
justbegintowrite (Ronda Miller) says…

Lots of memories surrounding us. Most appropriate. Thanks for sharing that with us, Roe.
January 16, 2011 at 2:25 p.m.
oldvet (anonymous) says…

Thanks for posting that, Ronda... I'm sorry for your family's loss and will keep all of you in my prayers.
January 17, 2011 at 8:57 a.m.
justbegintowrite (Ronda Miller) says…

Thanks, honored vet. My sister called after Carl's viewing last night and I shared the blog about both men with her. She said Carl loved the show and would be thrilled that he was named in the same blog as Winters. I appreciate your bringing his passing to my attention.
January 17, 2011 at 9:39 a.m.