Veterans

Inasmuch as it is difficult to retain the attention of Internet readers much beyond 800 words, I had to keep Dick's story short. I couldn't include his duty as a Marine Security Guard at the American Embassy in Rio de Janeiro where he met his wife, or his service during World War II or Korea. Even so, when I stopped paring away words to reveal the final product, Dick's story included more than 1,200 words. I decided to take my chances and test my readers' patience for a good story.
Now, I've already spent almost 300 words in this preamble to warm you to the task. Sit back. Take a breath. Get something to drink. Go the the bathroom. Then dive in and learn about these Atomic Veterans. Hopefully you'll agree that they deserve recognition.