Most libraries aren't even open on Veteran's Day, Nov. 11, but the Altadena Library will not only be open, but it features a special program:
The Altadena Library is pleased to announce a presentation by Jonna Doolittle Hoppes, granddaughter of Jimmy Doolittle and author of Calculated Risk, a biography of the famed aviator, who will be discussing and signing her new book, Just Doing My Job: Stories of Service from World War II. Joining Miss Doolittle will be a panel of heroes from World War II with many stirring and inspiring stories to tell.
When: Wednesday, November 11 @ 7 pm
Where: Altadena Library
600 East Mariposa Street
Altadena, CA 91001
Information: 626-798-0833; www.altadenalibrary.org; pdutton@altadenalibrary.org
Cost: Free
Jonna Hoppes Doolittle has been touring the United States and visiting Europe delivering the same message. "If we don't record our stories, they will be lost."
According to Doolittle, “There are heroes among us: People who will tell you that they were just doing their job, but, in reality, through their service, gave us the freedom we enjoy today.
“Their stories are just as extraordinary as my grandfather's and the men who followed him on a one way journey from the pitching deck of the USS Hornet.
“The heroes among us fought in World War II, Korea, Vietnam, and Desert Storm, and are fighting in Afghanistan and Iraq today. And the heroes among us kept the home fires burning and America functioning, as they waited for our soldiers to come home from harm's way.”
“From soldiers and spies to factory workers and nurses, the heroes profiled in this history include Dick Hamada, a Japanese-American who became a spy with the Office of Strategic Services; Edith McClure, an army nurse stationed in England; Bobby Hite, one of the famed Doolittle Raiders, who was captured by the Japanese and endured years of torture and solitary confinement; and pilot Bob Hoover, who was shot down over enemy territory and imprisoned but managed to escape by stealing a German plane.”
About Jonna Doolittle Hoppes:Jonna Doolittle Hoppes is an author and journalist. Her first book, Calculated Risk: The Extraordinary Life of Jimmy Doolittle¸ is a memoir of her famous grandfather, aviator Jimmy Doolittle, and his equally extraordinary wife, Joe. Ms Hoppes represents the Doolittle family at air shows across the country and is a popular speaker at libraries and air museums. Her articles have appeared in Smithsonian's Air and Space magazine, as well as other publications. She is past Chair of the Literary Guild of Orange County and a member of Sisters in Crime, a mystery writers' organization. She also works as a civilian for the U.S. Air Force and lives in Southern California.
