Canton Veteran In Local National Geographic Author's Book

CANTON, MI – The story of World War II veteran from Canton who spent five months in hard labor in a German prisoner-of-war camp is included in a sometimes difficult to read tribute to veterans by Canton author and photojournalist Robert H. Miller and co-author Andrew Wakeford, who lives in Germany.

The book for National Geographic, “Veterans Voices: Remarkable Stories of Heroism, Sacrifice, and Honor,” profiles 72 veterans through “intimate photographs and poignant stories,” according to Amazon.com, where the book is available for purchase.

Here’s more from the synopsis on Amazon:

“... This heart-rending book showcases the courage, heroics, and sacrifice of selected U.S. soldiers and veterans. This deeply moving, timely celebration of veterans highlights the heroes in our midst by bringing these brave men and women to life. Veterans Voices blends beauty and impact and gorgeous photographic displays with inspiring storytelling.”

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Thomas Houdek, 90, the Canton veteran profiled in the book, told The Canton Observer, that his 10 children, 28 grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren have purchased multiple copies and are thrilled that he was included.

“I never thought I’d ever have something like this,” he said. “They are so happy to know that these authors put me in that book. It’s something I’ll never forget — and neither will my family.”

Miller, a professional photographer for 36 years, also has written “Hidden Hell: Discovering My Father's POW Diary” and is a co-author with Wakeford in “Portraits of Service.”

“Hidden Hell” earned publishing awards, as did “Portraits of Service,” which caught the attention of National Geographic.

“I was really honored by this,” Miller told The Observer’s Darrell Clem. “It’s beyond my wildest dreams to say I’m a National Geographic author.”

Two customer reviews on Amazon strongly recommend “Veterans Voices.”

“ ‘Veterans Voices’ deserves a TEN STAR status and hand salute for the recognition and honor it gives to the Soldiers of the past, present and future!” Jenny La Sala wrote. “Perhaps the stories of courage will give America hope and understanding of what our Veterans carry with them day in and day out. This book has a proud place in my military library.”

Another user, who commented anonymously, wrote:

“Too long have our veterans kept silent about their experiences in service to our country. Veterans Voices seeks to give veterans a venue to share their stories. It is compelling and inspiring to say the least. Our heroes deserve to be heard. I cannot recommend this book highly enough. Thank you to Messrs. Miller and Wakeford and all who spent long hours in dedication to this project.”