Remembering a father’s valor that saved a future star
Richard Black, a veteran and Moses Lake resident, holds up two books that recount the life of famous musician Tony Bennett. In both books, Bennett recounts the time that he was saved in World War II by Richard’s father, Herbert Black.
CALEB PEREZ/COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD
The patch of the 63rd Infantry Division, the “Blood and Fire” Division from World War II, the original photo of Tony Bennett, left, and Herbert Black, middle, during the war and Herbert Black’s 1st Cavalry Division Patch from his service in Vietnam.
A collection of photos from Herbert Black’s time serving in Vietnam, with the bottom right being taken when he finally completed his service with the U.S. Army. Richard Black said his father, Herbert, was 47 at the time when he was first called to serve in Vietnam.
Richard Black, right, and Tony Bennett stand together in a signed photo. Black said he attended many of Bennett’s concerts over the years and both he and his father remained close with the singer.
In 2015, Richard Black met Lady Gaga during her and Tony Bennett’s "Cheek to Cheek" tour. Backstage Black gave Lady Gaga a copy of the photo of his father and Bennett from the war, which he said she still has displayed in her house to this day.
Herbert Black’s headstone at the Arlington National Cemetery. The decorated veteran served in three wars and earned the Purple Heart and Silver Star for his bravery during World War II.
Richard Black’s parents, Herbert and Hilda, in a picture taken in 1950. The two met soon after the end of World War II in Germany.
MOSES LAKE — Time passes and with that comes the loss of people, but this does not mean that the stories those people tell should be lost with them. Richard Black, a resident of Moses Lake and veteran, has one such story involving renowned musician Tony Bennett and Richard’s father, Herbert “Blackie” Black, who both fought in a battle in World War II that would change their lives forever.
Become a Subscriber!
You have read all of your free articles this month. Select a plan below to start your subscription today.
Already a subscriber? Login
