Life and Death
Life and death go hand in hand
Through this world of ours so drear
And the things we hold most dear
Live but for a day, and pass
Like a foot-print on the sand
Or a breath upon a glass
Sometimes, though, a passing breath
Leaves upon the glass a trace
Which all time cannot erase
And for endless years there stands
When all else has passed in death
One small foot-print on the sands.
- Lt. Sigourney Thayer
12th Aero Squadron
In many ways Lt. Thayer's poem embodies the heart of Twelfthrecon.com.
In turn, for last 100 years, members of the 12th each give their contribution to the United States and her ideals. Their deeds are many and lest their trace upon the glass be forgotten, Twelfthrecon seeks to bring these men and women to the light. Theirs is a personal story.
We encourage you to spend some time in their company.
We've recently published the A1C Boe Simpson Collection. His stories, letters and photos capture a G.I.'s life in the tense days after the Armistice.
Look through Capt Harold Wickham's photo album. He flew unarmed reconnaissance missions in the Korean War. Learn why he was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross.
Read Lt. Elmer T. Olson's stories and listen to Lt. Robert Marple in his own voice recount flying reconnaissance P-51 Mustang WWII.
Bury yourself into Maj Haslett's book of amazing tales of life as an aerial Observer during the Great War.
We think you will find their words humbling and inspiring. Walk among these giants, if only for a moment.