WWII memories returned to soldier's family - WALB.com, Albany News, Weather, Sports

WWII memories returned to soldier's family

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December 22, 2003

Cook County - William Gabard and his niece Jan Deeter got the best Christmas present they could ask for. "It's like Daddy's come back to tell us Merry Christmas," said Jan Deeter.

It's a box filled with hundreds of letters, photos, and pieces of history, all collected during World War II by her father and his brother, John Gabard. "It's unbelievable to go through all this stuff and relive history," said William. "I actually recognize a lot of things in here."

Scott Johnson bought the box at a flea market in Atlanta. He tracked down the only Gabards he could find in Georgia and hit the jackpot. "I thought it was a joke at first when he called, someone trying to sell me something," said William. "But he said he didn't want any money, just for these things to be given to John's children."

Johnson left the box with his mother-in-law in Cook County. Jan just happened to be visiting her uncle William in Valdosta when the connection was made. "He told us he'd hated that he waited to get it to us for so long, but this was perfect timing and everything happens for a reason," said Jan.

Scott Johnson paid $10 for the box of memories, a priceless gift this family will always treasure.

posted at 3:55 by ashley.harper@walb.com