World War II: Memories of Uncle Bob
World War II was a time of turmoil. It was a
bloody war and one that proved that the world could be split completely. It was also a war
that showed the technological advances in weaponry during the past twenty years. I was amazed
to find the great developments in such short periods of time. The war itself was also a great
one. After the Japanese were forced to resign from the League of Nations, they became bitter
and cold to other nations. Also, Adolf Hitler, an Austrian who came to power in Germany,
rearmed the Germans, although this was hostile to the Treaty of Versailles, in order to
conquer Europe and then the entire world.
I interviewed my great-aunt, Louise Niarhos, about my great-uncle, her late husband Robert
E. Niarhos and their activities during that war. Mrs. Niarhos was very willing to help me
and let me interview her. At times we started to become emotional about memories of
"Uncle Bob," but that never stopped her from providing me information about
her and her husband's activity in the war.
Robert E. Niarhos served his country faithfully for over thirty years, including during
World War II. Recently, Mrs. Niarhos was awarded and recognized at her church on his
behalf, and for the service she gave for giving food to the men that Mr. Niarhos served
with at Fort Stewart, Georgia during the war. Some of the acts he committed earned him
Bronze and Silver Stars and even two Purple Hearts. He achieved one of the highest ranks
attainable in the army at the time: Command Sergeant Major, or E-9. He was very brave and
would even take on leadership roles during times of crisis and need. Mrs. Niarhos noted how
he helped her see her way though the troubled times of that day. His deeds in this and other
awards earned him the right to be highly decorated when he was buried in the family
cemetery.
The interview went smoothly, although Mrs. Niarhos couldn't remember all of the details
from so long ago, because of our closeness to Mr. Niarhos and to each other. We had fun
talking about "Uncle Bob" and what he did during the war. We really discussed
our memories of him better after we finished the interview. I learned that the war was
not nearly as glorious as I had once thought or heard. However, my uncle was more of a
hero that I had ever imagined. He received numerous awards and recognitions because of
the roles he played at Fort Stewart and in the war. I learned that the Fort Stewart
museum even has a large portrait of him in the museum there since he was such a great
leader. I would say that the interview was very positive and went well. My knowledge was
greatened and I learned more than I thought I would. The information my great-aunt gave
me was helpful and I am highly appreciative of how she helped me.
