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Post Info TOPIC: Book about USS Indianapolis Rescuer - 60 Years Later
tbalunis


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Book about USS Indianapolis Rescuer - 60 Years Later
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I am a Wanaque, NJ Councilman and author of the just released book, 60 YEARS LATER, by Tom Balunis.  My book is about USS Indianapolis rescuer William Van Wilpe and his heroic actions while serving as a crew member of the USS Bassett.  Van Wilpe was awarded the US Navy and Marine Corps Medal for Heroism in 2005 for his heroism during the rescue of the Indianapolis survivors.  Anyone who is a history buff or just admires these brave men will enkoy my book.  I know Bill personally and learned things about the rescue that were kept secret for many years.  My book is available on Barnes and Noble .com and Amazon. com    I think it dealves into the whole USS Indianapolis story from a different perspective - from that of a rescuer and real hero.  It uncovers secrets, cover-ups but in the end, justice is done as Bill Van Wilpe is recognized for heroism by the US Navy.  He is a terrific guy; one of the greatest human beings I've ever had the pleasure to meet. 



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Thomas Balunis
SurvivorsDaughter


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Thank you so much for posting the information about your book!  I am looking forward to getting it!   My father was rescued by the USS Bassett, and was more dead than alive at that point.   I would bet that Mr Van Wilpe was very instrumental in saving his life.  Can not wait to hear his account of that day!



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Indyson18


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I met Bill Van Wilpe last year when he & L. Peter Wren accompanied my wife Sandi & I to Indianapolis for the USS Indianapolis Survivors Reunion the summer of 2008.  During the 9 hour to-and-from drives, we had the rare treat to hear his story in some detail, thanks in large part to Peter Wren, to ask many questions, and we began to deeply understand just what a wonderful man, hero and human being he is.  I cannot express in words what an unforgettable experience and cherished memory I will always carry because of this trip.  "Humble, gentle, brave, hurt, kind, thoughtful, polite, humorous, loving, sensitive, heroic"...just a few of our choice words that don't fully describe this mountain of a man, but for people who know him, are on their lists too.  I am so looking forward to seeing Bill again next week when he visits the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia, to help tell the story of the USS Indianapolis and pay tribute to the 880 men who did not return from that tragic cruise.  Come meet Bill March 31st or April 1st (2009) if you can get to Blue Ridge Community College in VA for one of the two programs.



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