Hero Street in Silvis, IL sent more children to the military per capita than any other street of its size in WW2 and Korea But recognition wasn't always given A story of sacrifice, community and "the very best of us" A long one for @MilitaryTimes militarytimes.com/news/your-mili…
When I was about 10, my grandfather brought me to Hero Street -- to see the monument -- that at first look was a pretty standard street. Then he told me the story -- and I found out how the families' history on the street somewhat mirrors my own
Agustín Pérez fled the violence of the Mexican Revolution to the U.S. -- eventually finding work and going back for his wife and children. They lived for a time in a boxcar a couple miles from Silvis My great-grandfather, Joseph, was born in that boxcar
Many thanks to the folks who gave reads, input and kept me sane: @JamesWClark @jon_simkins @molly_weisner