Obergefreiter Walter: A Didactic Novel

There is that mysterious driving force within our souls that compels us - or at least some of us - to hang in there, do not give up, there is hope. Walter had and has that compelling spirit. On the surface he was just an ordinary German soldier, but underneath his heart had the thump of a man of courage given to him by that great Truth, God. I have told his story as a biographical novel. I have taken the liberty of all authors, to insert certain ideas, opinions, facts and fiction to make Walter's experience, reflect experiences of many German prisoners of war, more vivid and I hope more interesting.

The German people suffered gravely, but they were not the only ones to sin. The world was to blame for World War II. So, I see no person without sin. France, England, America, all fall short of the ideal. Germany is not a barbaric nation any more than are the teenage hooligans down the street.

I have told Walter's story because my number one buddy (God) told me to. I live, breathe and exist by the nature of my Over-Soul, my Father. Let my critics klatch, let those who can do, do. Let the spirit of Walter dwell in all brave men - to live as a man should, standing tall till his final roll call, when Christ shall declare, "Well done, my faithful servant."