Author: Sabrina Stidham

Heroes Carved in Stone

Unknown Confederate Soldier

Interviewed by: W. H. McDonald – President of the MWSA

W. H. McDonald: Sabrina was in the 7th grade when she wrote "Heroes Carved in Stone."  As of this interview (January 2006) Sabrina is in the 8th grade.

Q: First off, I have to ask you why a young 7th grade girl is interested in writing about veteran issues? There are just so many other topics that would be foremost for someone your age.

A: For as long as I can remember I have been interested in war, but most of my attention was centered on the Vietnam War and war in general. All other topics didn’t really appeal to me as much at that did. I remember when I was starting to read-up on it during the end of 4th grade, beginning of 5th and to the present.

Q: Can you tell us a little about yourself that might be of interest to others or at least give us a better look at who you are?

A: I'm just an average teenager. I enjoy music, concerts, being with my friends, and reading. I read mainly about the Vietnam war, and lots of Manga. (Japanese comic books.) Of course like many people today I enjoy playing video games every now-and-then. I also like the outdoors, (and that’s usually where I am when its not so cold!) card games and drawing. My friends are a HUGE part of my life, and I have a lot of them. Though I'm very independent I always enjoy the company of my best friend, or any of them for that matter.

Q: Why is the Vietnam War of some interest to you ? Did you personally know any Nam veterans?

A: To me, it seems there is a lot to be learned about the Vietnam War, a lot of information that could be put to use especially with the situation we are in now with the War Against Terrorism. As for knowing any veterans, two of my great uncles where in the Vietnam War.

Q: Your poem “Heroes Carved In Stone” has seemed to touch many lives. You have been given newspaper and media coverage and even an award from the MWSA. Why do you think it has been received that way by so many people?

A: As I've been told, my story seems to express feelings that have been hard for some veterans to put in words themselves. I hope it can be the 'Welcome home' and 'Thank You' that they so greatly deserved and did not properly receive.

Q: What do your parents think of your writing and your awards and recognition?

A: I am still amazed with all the awards I've received. I look at them now and still can't believe it! I remember a while back when I first began to accumulate E-mails congratulating my writing and the story, my father said something to me about the way the story had touched so many people. I recall looking up to him and responding with "Well Dad it’s just a story." I do believe it’s a bit more than that now. Dad was right!

Q: “SHE WAS TOUCHED BY HEROES” was written in response to your poem by David Roberts. Did that surprise you in any way? Have you talked to him about his poem and why he felt moved to do that? (That poem by Roberts can be read by going to: http://www.iwvpa.net/robertsdt/she_was_.htm)

A: I was very surprised with the response from Mr. Roberts. I was honored by his poem. I do believe that Mr. Roberts is an extremely talented writer. He wrote me the morning that he read "Heroes Carved in Stone." He said in his E-mail, "At that moment I felt I had to thank her somehow and the words just came to me." I remember placing my hand on my forehead and saying. "Woah!...I never expected to get a 'Thank you' for a 'Thank you'..."

Q: Have you got any new poems that you are willing to share with us on our MWSA website? What is your next writing project?

A: As of yet I haven't any new poems other than "Heroes Carved in Stone," and "The Unknown Soldier." Though I am currently working on a Donut Dolly story. I plan to also write one on the Korean War.

Q: What are your plans for school and the future?  Do you want to go on to college some day, or perhaps write a book of poetry?

A: I try to do my best in school. I am in middle school I have already somewhat put-my-fist down on what I want to do with my life. I plan on going to college of course, but not until I graduate boot camp and officially become a United States Marine after high school. As for writing a book, it’s always on my mind. I think it would be a good goal to reach for, and it would also put some of my free time to use. I seriously might write a book, but probably not for a year or two.

Q: Speaking of school, how are you doing and what subjects are you enjoying and doing well in?

A: In school I am an average student. I’m currently an 8th grader at Baker Middle School in Troy MI. The only real subject I enjoy is American History. Science and Pre-algebra are all right, but I excel more in American History.

Q: Do your friends treat you any different now that you have become a mini-celebrity of sorts in the veteran community?

A: No, my friends don't treat me much different than before, they are all very supportive though. They always have been. Two of my closest friends where even able to attend the reading at the Nov 11 ceremony along with two of my teachers.

Q: Who are your favorite writers and poets?

A: Some of my favorite writers would have to be, W.E.B Griffin, (author of "The Corps") Herman Wouk, (author of "The Caine Mutiny") Laura Palmer, (author of "Shrapnel in The Heart") Ellen Emerson White, (author of "The Journal Of Patrick Seamus Flaherty" and "Where Have All The Flowers Gone?" 'My Name Is America' books.) Natsuki Takaya, (author and artist of the Japanese Manga "Fruits Basket") and Masashi Kishimoto (author and artist of the Japanese Manga "Naruto"). As for poets, I enjoy Shel Silverstein, I've always envied him for the vast amount of creativity that is used in all of his poems. I find it truly amazing.

Q: If you could meet any of our MWSA members who would you like to meet and talk to? Why?

A: I would like to meet, in person, Mrs. Maria Edwards, the encouragement she has showed me has instilled great confidence in me and my writing. I would also like to meet all the members that have served in Vietnam to achieve more insight on what they have, and have yet to write about. I would like to thank all the members who have been so supportive!

Q: Do you have any words or thoughts that you wanted to share with our members and other veterans?

A: I hope to meet you all in October, I will also be in Washington D.C. on the 28th of February to read my story for the American Legion Women’s Auxiliary Awareness Conference at the Hyatt Regency Hotel and will be laying a wreath at the Vietnam Memorial Wall. This will be the first time I will visit Washington D.C. Thank you for accepting me as one of your own. It's truly an honor!

Bill’s closing remarks: Thank-you for sharing with us and for inspiring others.  We look forward to sharing some of your future writings on the MWSA web pages.