As more and more of our heroic world War II Veterans are departing this earth, far too many of their valiant personal stories are going with them, hidden from future generations who will someday say, "I wish I had asked more questions while I could." This will not be the case for Master Gunnery Sergeant Jay W. DeGraw. As his favorite daughter-in-law, I have had the distinct honor of sitting down with this incredibly fine Marine in his 91st year to record in words and pictures the amazing story of his life. I offer his tribute as a tribute to all Veterans, and to all who read this book, in hopes of inspiring patriotism and bringing out that true Marine spirit which surely lives in the souls of all of us who love America.