I finished this book in one day because I was drawn in by the important, inspiring, and dramatic story. This is the history of an American soldier's life and how he was profoundly changed by WWII. We have much to learn from the personal sacrifice of the people that lived and served in our armed forces during this era.

From the beginning of this book I realized the Patriot Red Wells had given much to a thankful country. His life was one of hardships and numerous trials. One of his defining moments in life was when he decided to join the military. From his various experiences during training, to the development of his many strong friendships, to the accounts of the horrific realities of the battlefield, I vicariously learned from Red's life journey. The journey is itself amazing, and the master story teller Sharon Wells Wagner, Red's daughter, kept me en-rapt with each page.

Canada is known for sweet lobster and fresh seafood. A perfect spot to savor Canada's seafood is while enjoying the historic fishing village of Shediac. The closest major airport is in the city of Moncton, the center of the maritime provinces.

From downtown Moncton a cab cost thirty dollars to Shediac. The drive to the small village through undeveloped wooded countryside, made me ponder the challenges settlers of this island faced when they came upon this forest. Slow rolling hills passed by my window with an occasional opening in the woods, providing a fleeting glimpse of the natural beauty common throughout Canada.

It seems perceptions of the garden state are beginning to change. No longer is New Jersey the brunt of many late night television jokes. Since the popularity of HBO series "The Sopranos", I have found my friends and associates have a renewed interest in New Jersey. Some New Jersey residence have mixed feelings concerning the popularity of the fictional mafia boss Tony Soprano. I think it is great publicity for the Garden State.

One aspect of New Jersey many people don't realize is the historical significance of New Jersey in the American Revolution. As we approach July 4, 2007 I hope people searching for the sites where The Sopranos episodes where filmed will stumble across brochures, websites, and advertisements depicting the many parks and historic sites throughout the state.

Growing up in New Jersey one cannot help but realize the historical significance of the colonial period and the revolutionary war. During my grade school education in New Jersey, my class was taken on fields trips to some of the many revolutionary sites of which my favorites where Jockey Hollow and Washington's Headquarters.