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The Sunday Series (33), with Mark Brodinsky

July 6, 2014 By markbrodinsky Leave a Comment

It’s Sunday. Time to share your story, one of tremendous courage, hope, or inspiration. You are someone making an impact on the world. A change-maker, a thought-leader, and today…. a hero.  During this weekend as we celebrate our independence, the story from one man who fought to defend our freedom from perhaps the greatest threat the world has ever known.

The Sunday Series (33): Saving the World

brotman

70-years removed from living it the memories for Harvey Brotman are still pretty vivid.

Exactly one year after the day which “will live in infamy”, when the Japanese bombed Pearl Harbor, Harvey Brotman and two friends decided it was time to make a move.  “I went down with two buddies to enlist”, says Harvey because we knew we’d be drafted anyway.”  Two of us got accepted, the other guy didn’t make it because of a hearing issue.”  The initial experience seemed almost routine to Harvey.  But what Harvey couldn’t know then was he would become part of one of the greatest military invasions in the history of the world.

But first stop for Harvey and his friend was Fort Meade, Maryland and then quickly on to Abilene, Texas. Abilene was tough – sand, desert, and constant wind storms. Harvey, now Private Brotman, says, “they would march us into sandstorms…sand hitting us in the face, your food was covered with sand, you had to keep brushing it off before you could eat. Finally someone came to me and asked if I would like to go to Fort Benning, Georgia. I figured why not, any place is better than here. Then they told me the news, “there’s just one thing you’ll have to do though, jump out of a plane in flight. I said I would do it, just to get out of Texas.”

about to jump

When Harvey got off the train at Fort Benning it wasn’t a pretty sight. “A lot of people were just laying there”, says Harvey. “Many of them with broken arms and broken legs and telling me I would be sorry. I figured well, I’m here now, I’m stuck. We did a lot of training, a lot of running, exercising and they took us out to show us how to pack the parachute. If you were going to jump, you had to have confidence in the chute you packed.” Pack, jump, practice.  Harvey was now part of the 101st Airborne Division at Fort Benning, the Screaming Eagles. And before he knew it Harvey was being called to head overseas. Destination: England.

screaming eagles

It wasn’t an easy trip by any stretch of the imagination. The paratroopers left from New York on a ship bound for Europe, but the engine went bad and the men had to spend the next 30 days in Newfoundland. Then it was on to Halifax, Nova Scotia to pick up supplies. Except the ship had an accident pulling into port and it took 45 days to get a new one.

Eventually these paratroopers made it to England. Harvey says he stayed in Hungerford and practiced, practiced, practiced.  “We did a lot of training, a lot of jumping”, says Harvey. “We did a jump on a very windy day and we lost about 50 percent of the guys with broken arms and broken legs, but I was OK.”

As World War II took a turn the Allied Forces planned for a massive invasion of France, on the beaches of Normandy. Harvey was about to play a part in the climactic battle of the war, D-Day. At 12am on June 6th, 1944, Harvey and his fellow paratroopers boarded one of the more than nine-hundred C47s which flew into France, five hours in advance of the ground invasion of D-Day. “At 12:55am we jumped out of the plane, but I landed in the wrong place, there was no one around. I had a clicker I used for identification and if you got a click-click in return you knew someone was nearby. I clicked, but got no response, and it was pitch black, so I stayed in a hedgerow until it got light. Then I saw the 82nd airborne, I identified myself and told them I was from the 101st Airborne and they let me stay with them for four days to battle until I was sent back to my unit.”

D-Day-paratroopers-HU0308-007

Private Brotman’s primary responsibility in battle was as a medic, to aid the wounded. But Harvey couldn’t save one of his own. The man who became his best friend in the service was shot and killed on the first day of battle. Harvey says when you’re 20-years-old, far from the safety of home and your friend is killed, that’s a tough pill to swallow, you can’t understand why, or how this is happening.  A devastating repercussion of one of the toughest days of World War II.

Harvey’s group was part of the 502nd Parachute Infantry Regiment. That group eventually ended up taking  Sainte-Mère-Église in France and remained there until it was time to head to Holland. Harvey and the other surviving paratroopers would jump into Arnhem, Holland, a strategic location on the banks of the Rhine River. The Battle of Arnhem, part of Operation Market Garden, was fought in September 1944.  It was during this invasion into Holland that Harvey took a piece of shrapnel in his chest, eventually leading to his being awarded the Purple Heart.

purple heart

After the eventual success by Allied Forces in Holland, it was onto Bastogne, Belgium, where Harvey and many of the 101st Airborne were in bad shape. “It was the worst”, says Harvey. “It was so cold, snow, freezing temperatures, very, very bad.  I went and got newspaper to shove into everyone’s boots to try and stop the onslaught of frostbite.  We were surrounded by Germans and there were no planes to come rescue us because it was always cloudy and snowing. The Germans wanted us to surrender.” But on Christmas Day, (1944), the clouds finally gave way and the bombers moved in and the besieged American forces were relieved by General George Patton‘s Third Army.  “We didn’t think we were going to get out of there”, says Harvey, “not until Patton showed up.”

patton

Harvey says one of the highlights of the war for him was actually getting to meet General Patton. On the way back from a short leave in England, Harvey was asked to do an inspection, and it turned out it was Patton who was conducting it. Harvey says Patton told him and the others, “go back and tell your Colonel you are a god damn good-looking bunch of men, go back and tell him that.” Harvey did just that, relaying the message back from one of the greatest war heroes of all time. Harvey says when not in battle, he and the other paratroopers were a great looking a bunch of men. “Our boots shined like crazy and our uniforms were always just right.”

Harvey survived WWII and made it through the ranks during those years, going from Private, to Private First Class, to Corporal and then to Staff Sergeant.  Harvey says his greatest takeaway from his experience overseas and in battle: Life.

“Life is most meaningful”, says Harvey. Losing his best friend on the first day of the invasion brought that reality home in a hurry. “I learned a lot about life and there were so many nice people I met in France and England.”

But it might have been a telegram he sent home which meant the most in Harvey’s life and to his mom back home in Baltimore.

Harvey was an only child. His father was killed in a car accident when Harvey was only 10-years-old, so it was just he and his mother living alone until the day he left to join the war.  Because Harvey’s parachute took him far from the assigned landing spot on D-Day, the military sent a telegram home to his mother, relaying to her that her 20-year-old son was missing in action. It wasn’t until Harvey got a 30-day leave and could send another telegram home that his mother knew the real story. He told her he was fine. Ms. Brotman’s only child had survived.

medals  bronze star honoree

A room in Harvey’s apartment is now adorned with pictures and awards from his time in the service. A Purple Heart a Bronze Star, the French Croix De Guerre, the European-African Middle-Eastern Campaign Medal, a Good Conduct Medal, and the WWII Victory Medal.  Harvey has saved them all.

And why not?  Harvey Brotman helped save the world.

Until next time thanks for taking the time,

Mark Brodinsky

(Update: Staff Seargeant Harvey Brotman passed away, buried with honors, on May 15th, 2016. May he rest in peace.)

Mark Brodinsky, Author, Huffington Post Blogger, (http://www.huffingtonpost.com/mark-brodinsky/), Emmy Winner

Author: The #1 Amazon Best-Seller: It Takes 2. Surviving Breast Cancer: A Spouse’s Story

http://www.amazon.com/Mark-Brodinsky/e/B00FI6R3U6

Connect with Mark: markbrodinsky@gmail.com

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Love seeing new blogs hit the ground running like this one (by a dad no less), but I also urge anyone vaguely interested in blogging to stay tuned, I am. Good luck on your journey – glad that I am along for the ride.

Rachel Blaufeld

Great blog Mark! I always appreciate reading what you have to say. You are very gifted and talented and hopefully someday you’ll not just blog, but write a book.

 Stephen Koncurat

I’m definitely along for the ride. We’ve all seen how much damage the written word can inflict. More positive writers are needed. And I love how you are using your personal experiences – those with your wife and children – and your gift of writing to open eyes and to inspire others.

Victoria Endicott

Absolutely beautifully written! The girls in your life must be very proud of you. Thanks for sharing Mark, I look forward to reading more!

Gina Glick Jolson

Very shortly this site will be famous amid all blogging and site-building users, due to it’s pleasant posts.

Leila Galloway

Absolutely beautiful! Are you at all thinking of penning a book? You’ve got a fan base out there that really thinks you should Mark. You write so eloquently. Glad that I got onto this site.

Marilyn Lefkowitz

Mark, You are truly a gifted writer and obviously, a special father and husband . Always a delight to read your words.

I’m speechless…beautiful words flow from your heart just like a gentle waterfall into a tranquil stream… thank you so much for the friend request I was blessed the day I clicked confirm.

Lynne Turner Dorsey

From your first writing in 4th grade entitled “People” which was published in the school newspaper, you have always been able to write. Never more so than when you started “Caringbridge” and now your blog, everyone who reads says what a wonderful writer you are. Our DREAM for you is to become an author and encourage people every day. You are by the far the best and we hope and pray you reach your dream.

Bonnie Brodinsky

I know you always thank us for reading but I would like to say thanks for writing.

Stuart Abell

Great piece. You are an inspiration!

Rob Commodari

Mark I just wanted to let you know that you are succeeding in your “ultimate goal”. I have gained so much from your blogs. I look forward to reading them for the special lift that they give me. Thank you.

Amy F.

I love waking up and starting my day with my coffee and your blog! It a great way to start my day with positive uplifting thoughts!! It puts me in a positive frame of mind throughout the day and allows me to reflect on my personal life, make changes, and grow !!!

Gayle Blank

You are quite talented Mark. Thanks for sharing!

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I always look forward to your Blog Mark. Thanks for sharing and as you always do, make it a great / remarkable Day!

Chuck Connolly

Thanks for your Blog Mark. It is fun, encouraging and a nice break from a day full of ups and downs.

Jackie Hetrick

With my busy schedule, there is (sadly) little time for reading. But I have two must-reads every time I come across them, the sports section and your blogs. Keep inspiring and following your dream!

Ed Nemec

Mark, you are a truly remarkable individual. You do speak from your heart, I can’t wait to read your book. You are an incredible writer.

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Mark, I am glad I clicked on your post this morning, which lead me to your writing, your goal.
Would like to connect. This speaks to me.

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I can’t wait to read the book. I have followed all the blogs and feel so good that I know u guys. You make me cry but you make me laugh too. All the very best to you!

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WOW!!! It Takes 2 is a must read for anyone who has known someone diagnosed with cancer or other life threatening disease. This is the real story of a family lead by an incredible woman, Debbie Brodinsky, who took radical steps to beat the breast cancer beast. The story is told by her husband, Mark Brodinsky, through journal entries he kept starting with diagnosis through one year cancer free. This author's unique ability to pour his heart out onto the page draws you in from the beginning and holds you until the very end.

Thanks to Mark and Debbie Brodinsky for this gift...I have a new perspective on what it means to be a breast cancer survivor. You are a hero, Debbie Brodinsky!

TeeBThree
September 25, 2013

ittakes2_reviews_2

This book gives a heartfelt, in depth description of what it is like to go through breast cancer with the one you love. It is beautifully written and I felt as though I was living it with them! I highly recommend this book!

Jgs17
September 24, 2013

ittakes2_reviews_2

In It Takes 2, Mark Brodinsky windows us into his world where his wife, the cancer patient, is not the only victim. Part journal, part roadmap, It Takes 2 goes to the real humanity of facing the mortality of one's better half. Mark's candid perspective, love, and fierce intention resonate with hope in a story which is about much more than cancer. Mark himself is perhaps the most heroic character for the way he appreciates this life and so many of us in it...as he says, "thanks for caring."

Réné Pallace
September 24, 2013

ittakes2_reviews_2

It Takes Two: A Spouse's Story by Mark Brodinsky should be read by every person who is experiencing serious illness or injury or by a loved one of someone who is experiencing either of those situations. The book is an eloquent testament to the power of love and the healing energy derived from the belief that things will get better. There is not one word of "poor me" from the author or his wife who suffered breast cancer and the radical surgery she elected to have to beat the cancer. Rather, the book is a celebration of the courage displayed by them both in seeing it through.

The book also encourages readers to speak and write down their true feelings and be validated in them. John Mackovic writing in the Palm Springs, CA Desert Sun on November 2, 2013 quoted author and artist Doe Zantamata who said, " To be happy, you don't have to do anything new. You just have to remember how to believe again...Believe everything good is possible. Believe in your dreams. Believe in people. Believe in love. But most of all...believe in yourself." The author, his wife, their family and extended family and friends never stopped believing in his wife's recovery, and I think, in themselves. Read this book and believe.

Paul A. Riecks
November 4, 2013

ittakes2_reviews_2

This book is a must read for anyone with a family member with breast cancer. It takes you through the spouse's perspective from diagnosis to recovery. Mark journaled his wife's journey and put all of his emotions out there. It is beautifully written and inspiring to anyone going through breast cancer. Thank you, Mark for sharing Debbie's story.

Jmu1109
October 23, 2013

ittakes2_reviews_2

A friend recommended this book. This was a great perspective of a man standing beside his partner and passing along to the reader fear, hope, useful information and a broader story than his own. I loved Vinnie the tattoo artist. This is a great book. Thanks for sharing, Mark and "thanks for caring"

Blahsan

ittakes2_reviews_2

This book is a must read. What sets this book apart from other books about surviving breast cancer is that it is told by the husband and his point of view, not from the survivor. At times sad, at times poignant but even through the worst of it you can always feel the love he has for his wife, her strength and the strength of their extended family and friends. The posts that are included from their friends and family lets you really into the heart and strength of the family. I would recommend this book to anyone who is currently going through this, whether you are the person or the caregiver. I also recommend this book to anyone who has a friend that has been or is currently going through their fight now. It was an eye opener for me.

L. Bogash
Seven Valleys, PA

ittakes2_reviews_2

There isn't a shortage of books about breast cancer, but most are written from the perspective of the person who has battled cancer or a physician or other expert. What an enlightening experience to read about breast cancer from a husband and caregiver's perspective! Not only does the author give us insight into his wife's experience and emotions, but he openly shares and reveals his love, compassion, support, and, yes, sometimes anger at the disease as he stands by his wife's side during their journey to beat the beast. Your story may not be the same, but I guarantee if you have a loved one battling cancer, you won't go wrong reading It Takes 2.

 PattiM
September 25, 2013

 

ittakes2_reviews_2

From the moment I opened this book I never stopped reading. Mark invites the reader to come along on this journey that his family went through. I cried, laughed and learned so much. This book will give comfort and knowledge to those going through similar situations. Most importantly, Mark and his family never give up. They get knocked down and get right back up. They fought cancer together and with their strength, determination and will to prevail... They do!

 Jenny Schloss 

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