I was at the VA today. Just getting some quick medical care. While I was waiting to be called, one of the other vets and I started talking. He was wearing a ballcap for the Fourth Marine Division, WWII service. So I was already thinking he was one lucky chap for still being around. At 90 years old, he’s beaten the longevity odds, and had a good long run.
But then he got to talking a little about his service. Turns out he served in the Pacific. And was on his way to Iwo Jima, when he contracted malaria. He and seven other guys were transferred off at Guam, and got to miss the Hell Hole that was Iwo Jima. He honestly, and matter-of-factly, credits his survival through WWII with having contracted malaria.
Not your normal reaction to coming down with malaria, I don’t think. 
What’s the oddest thing you’ve heard lately?
