Endicott, New York - 1946
Jim Jackson married Gracie Winner in late 1945, only three days after he returned from Europe. He had fallen in love with her before being deployed, and the thought of returning to Gracie is what helped him survive the war and his extensive injuries. He wasn"t able to stand during the civil ceremony in nearby Johnson City, but he later claimed that although he was seated, his pride stood tall.
Despite the relentless pain, Jim always remembered his wedding day as one of the best days of his life. According to Gracie and Bea, he looked very handsome in his uniform even though he had lost so much weight that he seemed to disappear into the fabric. Bea and Arty Fletcher were their witnesses and later accompanied them home for cake and champagne.
Gracie was now work
