As was mine.
He never wanted to talk about it. He survived the battle, but I think the experience eventually contributed to his death. He succumbed to throat cancer, brought on by the classic one-two punch...heavy smoking and consumption of alcohol.
The local Chosen Frozen group came to his funeral and performed a very moving ceremony; the next day, an Honor Guard played taps over his grave.
The Marines never leave their comrades behind.
His lung took on frostbite. Went on disability.
Died from heart attack, although the booze and cigarettes were just as guilty.
Never knew him well.