Dick,

I grew up in southern Wisconsin (dairy country). My grandfather was a WWI veteran (in the trenches, injured, purple heart), my father is a WWII and Korean war veteran. Like you, I have a colorful family history with many stories. I think a movie like "War Horse" resonates with us because we can connect the dots with our family histories.

Renee: my mother was second generation German-American (they settled in SW Wisconsin beginning in 1840s) and I have cousins in Germany. I do a lot of family history, and have more to talk about if you wish, but it's too long and too specific for on-line.

Renee, nice catch on Rachel H possibly being Rachel Horn. Since she didn't respond, I suspect you may be right. Like you, I just can't stand by and let these assaults on the facts go unchallenged. Keep up the good work.

Renee, nothing to do with you specifically, but we're now asking people to use their full names on Patch. If you have any questions, call me at 651-269-2432.