MWSA Book Review

Memories of Maggie - Martha Raye: A Legend Spanning Three Wars

Author:  Noonie Fortin

Publisher:  LangMarc Publishing

Reviewer: Bill McDonald – President of the MWSA

Truly an Angel – Great Bio on Martha Raye

Noonie Fortin is more than just an author—she is a gifted writer.  She has captured the very essence of one of America’s great unknown icons.  When I say “unknown” I mean only to the non-military world; because those of us veterans who served in WWII, Korea or Vietnam knew her from her personal trips to battle fields around the globe.  In Noonie’s book, “Memories of Maggie—Martha Raye: A Legend Spanning Three Wars,” she writes a moving tribute bio on someone I was once on stage with in Phu Loi, South Vietnam (in the spring of 1967).  I know from my personal experience the warmth and care she gave and showed was genuine and not for any publicity photos or media attention.

Much of Fortin’s book was used for a TV movie about Raye’s life.  It is a book that inspires and captures moments from a distant past when entertainers didn’t protest wars and policy publicly but gave their time and energies to supporting the troops.

This was such a wonderful book to read that I have been asked to share my personal copy with several dozen nurses and friends.  (I would advice you to buy your own copy and help the author!)

A book for all ages to read; it is entertaining and informative.  When you put it down you will understand much more about why so many of us veterans loved this woman.  The author does her memory proud as she presents a good view on the life and times of Maggie.

A must read. Given the MWSA highest rating - 5 stars!