An American Vietnam veteran is searching for a Gloucester family who “opened their home and their hearts” to him almost 48 years ago.
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Michael Lewis has contacted the Gloucester Advocate in search for Graham Higgins and his family who’s generosity has remained in Micheal’s memory.
Michael’s father had told him stories of when he was training in Australia with 7th Calvary Regiment, 1st Calvary Division of the United States Army at the outbreak of WWII, before he deployed to fight the Japanese in the Marshall Islands and the Admiralty Islands. Inspired by how much his father liked Australia, Michael decided to visit Australia during his Rest and Recuperation (R&R) while serving in South Vietnam in 1969.
“So, off I went to Sydney for a much needed break from the combat zone of Vietnam,” he recalls.
“Upon arrival, all of us soldiers had to attend a briefing at a reception centre, at which we were told what to do, and what not to do while guests of the Australian people.
“At the end of the briefing, the gentleman on stage mentioned that he had a letter in his possession from the Shire of Gloucester inviting a couple of soldiers to come and stay with a couple of families in Gloucester.”
Michael was the only solider to take up the offer. The following morning he boarded a train.
“When the train arrived in Gloucester, I was met at the station by two families.
“I do not remember the name of one family, but the family who opened their hearts and their home to me was named Higgins. Graham Higgins, and he had a wife and a young son (8 or 9 years maybe).”
Michael remembers Gloucester’s only paved road was Church Street.
“Graham and his family lived about 20 kilometres out of town on a dirt road that crossed a couple of streams and a river.” Michael tries to remember.
He recalls how Mrs Higgins cooked on a wood burning stove, preparing “fantastic food.” Michael remembers attending the Gloucester Show and a dance at a church hall.
“I don't think I have ever danced as much as I did that night again in my life.
“Every girl ask me to dance at least once, and they all made me feel very special.”
Michael and his wife are coming to Australia in April 2017. He wants to visit Gloucester and is hoping for the chance to reunite with the Higgins family. If anyone has information to assist Michael please contact the Gloucester Advocate.
