Dr. Hal Caver passed away yesterday. He served as a Marine sniper in the Pacific Theater in World War II.
Dr. Caver saw his first action in Guadalcanal and took part in the Battle of Hacksaw Ridge. He served his country, came back home, became a dentist, and served his community. My favorite story about him involved baby boxes. He found out decades ago that when a woman miscarried or had a stillborn infant, the hospital gave the mother the deceased in a cardboard box. He didn't think that was appropriate so he set up shop in his back yard and proceeded to make "baby boxes" out of wood, donating them to the hospital upon completion. He performed this labor of love for many years.
His hobby was fly fishing and he was always good for a fish story. I met him at the Lakeland Courthouse right after I completed basic training in the 1990's. We quickly struck up a friendship that lasted until yesterday. I had the pleasure of taking him to see Ben-Hur and Lawrence of Arabia when their anniversary showings appeared at the theatre a few years ago. He particularly enjoyed Ben-Hur as the ending moved aged combat veteran to tears.
Oh yes, the combat. He never spoke of it but said it took decades for the nightmares to finally fade away. He was a hero when this country needed heroes. Simply put, he was a good man who was kind to all and a friend to many. He was in his late 90's when he passed away. Farewell, my friend. Semper Fi!
Posted below is my interview with him on WJNT in 2014. Enjoy.
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11 comments:
Americas greatest generation.
RIP Brother. Semper Fi.
Hand salute!
11:19, they are leaving us fast and in a hurry. Our world is a better place due to those men and women.
My father fought in the pacific theater as a B-24 pilot bombing Japanese ground, naval, supply targets and fighting air born threats as well.
My sisters and I were going to purchase a ride on a B-24 for him quite a few years ago. I'll never forget his reply when we asked if he'd like to take the ride.
His reply was........"I spent the most terrifying times of my life in the left seat of one of those. HELL no I don't want a ride!"
May he rest in peace.
Thank you, Kingfish for bringing this story to life
He and I both were International Ballet Competition volunteers.
Always upbeat and friendly..a pleasure to be around..
Godspeed Doctor!
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Great post Kingfish. Wish I had known this man. God knows we are lacking great men such as this nowadays. Rest peacefully marine...job well done!
I had the Wonderful Privilege of knowing Dr. Caver. My wife lives across the hall from him at the Arbor. Each Day he would station himself outside her door and Shush and Shoo
Noisy Neighbors and Staff away so that she could Rest Peacefully. He was Thrilled that Deb called Him "Pop". If She inquires about "Pop", I'm going to Lie.
Was fortunate to know him. Was a great man who will be missed. Truly the Greatest Generation.
Mayor of Eastwood, movie extra, played cards with John Wayne, dog lover, dentist, Marine, proficient handyman……..Friend.
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