Shirley Gamble's smile masks a broken heart

Shirley Gamble Gene Morris/McCook Gazette

By Gene O. Morris

McCook Gazette

McCOOK, Nebraska -- When you see Shirley Gamble out-and-about these days, you will be impressed by her friendliness and good humor.

But, however happy she might appear, her friends know that, deep inside, Shirley harbors lingering love and great sadness for her first husband, William Harvey Gamble.

As was the case with too many young men from the United States, William Harvey Gamble was killed June 13, 1966, in Vietnam. Bill was struck down by a crushing blow to the head, according to a statement issued by the U.S. Army.

Believe it or not, that was 47 years ago. So long ago, yet still so fresh in our minds. Shirley wants it to stay that way. "He was so good to me," she says. "I want to remember. I want to walk in the light of his love.

Shirley's broken heart pendant is precious to her. It is such a poignant symbol. It shows a broken heart, with a Band-Aid placed across it.

God, it hurts. And it should ... for all of us who survive.