Every sailor has a story.

Meet my grandfather…

His job was at sea.

Black and white image of Navy Band member Bill Holston from 1949 to 1951 on the USS Midway

His heart was in Norfolk.

Generations later, their love story unfolds in the letters they left behind.

In May 1951, a lovestruck sailor said a tearful goodbye to his new bride before boarding the USS Midway. Longing for home, he picked up a pencil and poured out his heart.

My Dearest Bea is a rare collection of intimate love letters written by U.S. Navy Band trumpet player Bill Holston to his sweetheart in Norfolk during the unbearable months of sea duty following their wedding day. Amid the monotony of daily ship life, a blossoming romance leaps off the page transporting readers into the heart of timeless love story, brimming with insight for couples and families in the digital age.

Available now! In paperback and Kindle, available to order wherever books are sold.

“. . . a gripping love story . . . well worth reading.”

—Scott McGaugh, New York Times bestselling author of USS Midway: America’s Shield

“. . . a beautiful collection of love letters.”

Lizann Lightfoot, author of Open When: Letters of Encouragement for Military Spouses

“This is a tale that will bring back your own love story in vivid color.”

Jacey Eckhart, Admiral spouse & author of The Homefront Club