Treasure

Two years ago my mother finished transcribing and compiling my grandfather's World War One diary which consists mostly of the time he spent in France and the trip there. That summer she made a copy for each of his 7 children and 13 grandchildren. Included in the booklet were copies of photos he had taken, postcards he purchased, letters he sent home, and related documents like his draft notice and supply list. What a treasure.
My grandfather met another young man from northern Michigan in his company before they departed for France. In his diary he writes about the pledge these two young men made to each other, that if one of them did not return, the other would look after that soldier's family. He also writes about the sister his friend described, and his desire to seek her out after the war. His friend contracted pneumonia in France, and James (my grandfather) helped care for him till they reached a place where he could receive medical attention. But it was to late to save his life. James kept his promise to his friend, and the sister he expressed interest in... she was my grandmother.
Shalom