During World War II, using her shortwave radio from her home in Nutley, New Jersey, Agnes listened to Radio Berlin each night and notated the names of U.S. Prisoners of War as they were announced.
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Agnes then went on to send personal letters to each family to inform them that their loved ones were still alive.
Author, Nutley native, and son of Agnes, Ronald along with his wife Valerie, will discuss the creation of this book and this inspiring story of his mother.
About "Waves of Hope":
Through the vivid memories of Agnes Joan Negra, currently at the 102-year milestone of life, travel back to hear the expressions of American World War II prisoner of war mothers, fathers, wives, sisters, and brothers as they wonder whether their loved ones are alive while searching for word—any word—about the fate of their soldiers.
This true story is documented by handwritten letters and postcards from these American families. Using a shortwave radio during World War II, the newlywed wife of an American soldier becomes one of the only communication links to the families of American prisoners of war as they struggle with anxiety, fear, and heart-wrenching emotions worrying about the fate of their captured sons, husbands, and brothers.
As the son of Agnes Joan Negra, the author interviewed his mother about her memories of this emotional period of the war. Through reading the many letters and postcards written by American families to her, he became passionate about sharing this story that affected the lives of many Americans.
In addition, for her efforts, the Daughters of the American Revolution have selected “Waves of Hope” to be included in their National Library in Washington, D.C., and have awarded Agnes Joan Negra their prestigious DAR “Women in American History” Medal. Agnes has also been named a “Homefront Hero” at the National World War II Memorial, in Washington D.C.
About the Author:
Ronald Edward Negra, a Nutley, NJ native, was born on November 9, 1947. He enjoys writing about genealogy, and has authored several books on the subject.
Ron holds a Bachelor of Science Degree and a Masters Degree in Business Management and Marketing. He retired as an Executive after working in the medical industry.
Ron was inspired to write “Waves of Hope” by his mother Agnes Joan Negra, after learning of her extraordinary role in World War II communicating with the families of American soldiers, as they were captured and became Prisoners of War. His mother always believed it was important for Americans to understand the sacrifices of these men and the emotions they and their families experienced, of fear, anxiety, sadness, and hope.
Ron and his Mom have been recently interviewed and highlighted on CBSNews, NY as well as News12NewJersey.
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