Welcome to my blog site. My name is James Odrowski. My father, Edward A. Odrowski, was an officer in the U.S. Army’s 44th General Hospital. From an early age, I grew up listening to my Dad’s stories of World War II in the Pacific. Although he enjoyed his children, grandchildren, hobbies, and business career, it was evident from his stories that the War was the greatest adventure of his life.
Also, I appreciate that my Mom provided her perspective of the times during World War II. Similarly to my Dad’s stories, she described her life as a newly-wed Army wife. Her stories helped me understand what it was like on the home front, caring for a young son while helping her parents run their corner grocery store. She experienced three tense and anxious years, waiting while Dad and both of her brothers served in the Pacific Theatre.
The Unique Story of these World War II Veterans
I later connected Dad’s stories with their historical context. Also, I came across the stories of many other veterans that served with my Dad and also connected with some of their children who shared their memories. To my surprise, what I discovered about the 44th was even more remarkable than my Dad’s stories indicated. As a result of my research I self-published a book describing the unique story of the 44th General Hospital in World War II called “The Battle of Buffalo Wallow“.
About Me
Today, I live in Lenexa, Kansas with my wife Colleen. Besides the time we spend with our growing family, five children, spouses, and grandchildren, Colleen and I like to travel. Particularly, we enjoy our trips to Europe (two grandchildren in Germany) and our ongoing quest to visit all 62 National Parks. Also, we’re avid “fly fishers”. Particularly, our favorite spots are Wyoming, Colorado, and the Missouri Ozarks. Granted, you’ll have to contact me if you want specifics! A hint on the photo below, you can get there by steamboat and it’s named after a famous “bugler”. Since I was very young, I’ve been interested in World War II history. Particularly, the Pacific War.
Contact Info
If you have questions or comments about the story of the 44th General Hospital, please contact me. I can be reached through the Contact the Author Page. Or, through the following social media links: