Introduction

The tales in parts one and two are a continuation of those found in the author's book Stories of Life and Tales of the Korean War, dealing with the human condition in peace and war. Although fictionalized, in general, as in the first book, the stories that follow are largely based on observation and, sometimes, shocking reality.

A few in part one are highly imaginative, perhaps appearing to a reader as adult fairy tales. The motivation for writing part two was a stirring article the author read entitled Swifty written by Chuck Yeager, a well-known and respected retired US general, and is referred to in its epilogue.

The stories presented here, although written in a fictionalized format, are largely based on the experiences and actions involving real people and events. The subject matter is not always nice or inspirational, neither is life or war. It would be surprising if readers are unable to find elements in some stories relevant to their own experiences in life.