Wise Heart

In 1917, while World War I raged in Europe, Gert was born in very humble circumstances in Mankato, Minnesota, her hometown for her entire life. She grew up in poverty and came of age during the Great Depression. During World War II she enlisted in the army, achieved the rank of first sergeant, served in England and France, and was awarded the Bronze Star for meritorious service performed during the Battle of the Bulge.

Gert's maiden name was Klugherz, which means wise heart in German. And it's Gert's wise heart that speaks from the pages of these memoirs.

More than an interesting account of Gertrude Klugherz Meyer, this memoir is a story of America. It's a story of growing up in poverty, a story of the Great Depression, a story of women in the military during World War II, a story of what has been called the Greatest Generation.

Gert's life story embodies an American era of struggle, perseverance, and accomplishment. Gert's reminiscences illuminate the past and resonate with the present.