LOCAL AUTHOR SHARES FATHER'S STORY THIS VETERAN'S DAY

Kittery, ME –This Veteran’s Day millions of Americans will be remembering the honorable men and women who have served our country, one of whom will be long-time Kittery, Maine resident and author, Julie Patten.

Patten’s book, Another Side of World War II: A Coast Guard Lieutenant in the South Pacific (White Mane Publishing, December 2005), is a compilation of letters written by her father, Lieutenant Jules Fern, to his mother while serving in the South Pacific in World War II. The book depicts an often unreported, more human side of war.

After her father’s death in 1991, Patten sifted through several old trunks containing her father’s keepsakes. She came upon a box with a note taped to the top that read “WWII letters: Pitch at Fern’s Death.” Inside she discovered a box filled with letters, photos, and documents still in their postmarked envelopes that her father had sent to his mother during his war assignment.

The letters are intriguing and amusing, often evoking smiles and laughter from the reader as the author reveals Lt. Fern’s quick adjustment to life at sea, the camaraderie he establishes with fellow officers and crewmates, and his opportune ventures to the surrounding islands. These letters present a stimulating view of the events of WWII as told by a person who lived them during his assignment in the South Pacific.

Another Side of World War II: A Coast Guard Lieutenant in the South Pacific is Patten’s tribute to her father. With this book, she hopes to honor his memory and his commitment to our country.

Patten is a graduate of the University of Denver and holds a master’s degree from the University of New Hampshire. She teaches English at York County Community College.

Patten will be appearing at Barnes & Noble in Manchester, NH at 2:00pm this Veteran’s Day. Her father’s wartime letters and photographs will be on display and Patten will be signing copies of her book.

The book is also available from Amazon.com, BN.com and can be ordered at The History Store in Greenland, NH.

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To request a media kit or review copy, or to schedule an interview with Ms. Patten, please contact Allison McKay, publicist, Bisson Barcelona at 603 664-5776 or email allison@bissonbarcelona.com