Survival of a Texan

About the Book

SURVIVAL OF A TEXAN Before the days of McDonalds, Best Western and affordable telephones, two sets of Grandparents, not knowing of the other’s plans, set out on a 75 mile trip by horse and buggy, to await the arrival of an expected Grandchild. It was a three day journey. They slept under the buggies at night on quilts placed on top of tarpaulins. The father of the expected baby was caught in a fierce “Blue Norther” while trying to get a doctor. Despite the dilemma, a baby Boy was born. He was an adventurous little boy intent on working for money at an early age. His Dad was generally a loving father but became abusive when he was drinking hard liquor. Billy Boy took on the responsibility of the support of the family at an early age. He bought his first house at the age of twelve and remodeled it with a little help. At the age of 18 {actually 17} he went off to war where he was critically wounded twice on the same day and was given the Last Rites. A bullet entered below his right ear exploded in his mouth and a part of his right check was blown away. He was in a fierce battle in the retaking of Manila. A freighter, which was converted to a hospital ship, was transporting Bill and others from Leyte to Hollandia, New Guinea. It was torpedoed by a Japanese submarine and the crippled ship moved on slowly toward Hollandia, NG. The submarine was obliterated by a US Navy escort. Bill was “Born Again” in a foxhole. His faith in Jesus has carried him through the rough times and personal tragedies. You must read this fascinating book of Bill’s unusual and eventful life.

About the Author

William Spivey Sr. is a native Texan. He is a WW II Veteran and is the recipient of two Purple Hearts and the Bronze Star. He was severely wounded and was given The Last Rites in the Battle of the retaking of Manila. He now resides in Orlando, Florida, with his wife June. He is a member of the First Baptist Church of Orlando [inactive at this time due to health problems.] In 1959, he and his late wife, Jean & family established “Calvary Baptist Church” in a rented house in North Platte Nebraska, with 8 members. He retired from Civil service after 32 & 1/2 years. He served as Superintendent of several different National Cemeteries. His Last 21 years of service were at the VA National Cemetery at Houston, Texas.