[advsmt]

I have read this thread with great interest, and am always surprised at the breath of reaction and depth of feeling that runs through the people who all share the same basic interest as me. I collect RK signatures, or at least that is my obsession, but it is the people behind the signature that makes it an obsession. I started writing to RK holders in 1990 and in the space of 10 years wrote to well over 1000. I have over 380 Jagdflieger RK signatures. The vast majority replied, often with long letters and asking about my own military career. It never ceased to amaze me how engaging and courteous they were, and how they obviously enjoyed corresponding. I always enclosed money and a stamped address envelope, and wrote in both German and English. I stopped writing 7 years ago because I often got replies from family announcing that the veteran had passed away. I was fortunate, as many have said, that I started this 17 years ago. For me it was time to stop. Wolfgang Spate often said how he detested the trade in his signatures, but he never stopped replying. That was a recurring theme. I know many might disagree with my obsession, my wife for one. But it brings to life the books that many of you write. There are few authors but many people like me, well intentioned but maybe not as worthy, but we all share in the lives of others.