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A lunch date with history (Compliments of Dr. Nelson Krum and Dental Care Saipan)
There is a picture that hangs in the Marine Museum in Quantico, Virginia of Mr. Carl Matthews landing on the beach on Saipan in 1944. This is the most widely published photo from “D-day in the Pacific” and he is the only person in the picture that survived the battle.
His commanding officer, Mr. Leary, and his good friend were both killed and he is still today close friends with their families.
Carl Matthews, veteran of the Battle of Saipan, is flanked by Donna Krum, right, history buff and Saipan resident, and Samantha, left. Matthews was part of the first wave to hit the beach on June 15, 1944. (Contributed Photo)
He took my address and said he will mail me a copy of that picture!
I have been a history buff all of my life, growing up in the historic and military setting of Norfolk, Virginia, but this has been the experience of a lifetime.
“Thank you for your service” has a much bigger meaning for me now. Being able to live on this beautiful island, surrounded with truly special, interesting people is all because of people like Mr. Matthews.
I really don’t have words to describe these last few historic days, but this I know…we on Saipan live in a special place, and a special part of American history happened here. Coming up close and personal to what has been called “America’s greatest generation” has been a truly humbling experience.
A special thank you to the 70th reunion committee who worked so hard to bring Saipan’s legendary island hospitality to this special commemoration. Shelly Scott, one of those folks, has a huge heart and an amazing gift of hospitality and has made Mr. Matthew’s visit truly memorable. I don’t think she has slept 15 minutes since the festivities began!
Donna Krum
San Jose, Saipan
