Bouquet: U.S. Army Corp. Joseph F. “Brook” Dapoz proudly served his country in uniform from his enlistment (at age 24) on Oct. 11, 1940, until his honorable discharge on July 29, 1944, suffering PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder). His Army specialty was rifleman. Brook was trained to go to war and kill or capture as many of the enemy as he was able to, particularly serving in the infantry, in a combat zone. He was asked to make (if necessary) the greatest sacrifice, possible death or injury. In my father’s case, an injury that never totally healed.

Before the United States and her allies began the invasion of German-occupied Europe, on June 6, 1944 (D-Day), the British, along with the U.S., decided to “soften up” the Axis powers. Germany and Italy in North Africa, Italy via the island of Sicily.

Among Brook’s citations he was awarded the European, African Middle Eastern Campaign Medal with three battle stars in recognition of his valor in battles, skirmishes, and engagements at the following: Maknassy, Tunisia SedJenane Valley, Tunisia French Moroccan Campaign, Sicilia Campaign. The records show that Brook served in the E.A.M.E. Theater from Oct. 23, 1942, to May 28, 1944.

He received the Army Good Conduct Medal awarded for exemplary behavior, efficiency and fidelity in active federal military service.