Touching the Ancient One

Mr Pratt,
I visited the AK Veteran's Memorial this year with a friend. While in the gift shop I purchased your book and gave it to my friend to read first since he is an Alaskan and it sounded interesting. He is a 20 yr retired POL from the Air Force and I had no idea what the book was about until he started telling me over the phone a few days later. Needless to say, it freaked him out a bit that I picked your book of all in the store. It is truely an amazing story that now has significance for both of us and someday we will climb to the ridge & visit the crash site. Thank you for sharing the story and history of the crew & the groups efforts to create a memorial for the one's lost that day. The next time I visit the Memorial again, it will mean so much more to both of us.
Hope to see you in Alaska again sometime. Would it be possible to purchase a signed copy of your book? Best Regards, Sarah

Thanks, Joe. We were really impressed by the way everyone pitched in to make what could have been a book-signing disaster into a really good experience. We saw that helpful attitude everywhere we went in Alaska, which speaks volumes for your wonderful state.

Rupert

Hi Rupert. I had the pleasure of meeting you and Millie while you were in Palmer for the book-signing. (I helped you get set up at Vagabond Blues after construction work limited access to Fireside Books.) Last night I finished reading "Touching the Ancient One". Your story of the C-47 crash, the rescue, and the subsequent reunions with the suvivors and their families, is truly remarkable. As a long time Alaska resident, I have a special appreciation for the conditions that you endured in 1954 and the people and places that you have re-connected with during your visits. Thank you for sharing your story and for continuing to keep these important memories alive.

Mr. Pratt
I appreciate your beautiful sentiment about my father. I know he would have been proud of the story, and I know he was proud of having you as a friend.
Mark Harbour