
(pictured at left) On February 25, 2026, at the Promenade Apartment Complex in Bethesda, MD, Judy Ikels teamed up with Peter Kissel, author of Three Patriots: The Hopes and Trials of My Immigrant Ancestors in Civil War America. With Dr. Charles Fortin as moderator, the authors explored the history of WWII and the U.S. Civil War for common themes of trauma and resilience of families affected by wars, separated by 80 years in history. With Dr. Fortin's guidance, participants were encouraged to submit two-page essays of their own cherished stories, which are now being collected in a dedicated binder in the library of the complex to share with other residents. The essay activity is a way to honor memories, become better acquainted with neighbors and to possibly initiate a new literary interest group.
Social Impact Authors: How & Why Author Judy Goodman Ikels Is Helping To Change Our World
From Medium.com:
In this in-depth interview, Judy Goodman Ikels discusses her journey in writing Death in Wartime China: A Daughter’s Discovery, which chronicles the life and death of her birth father, a U.S. Army Air Force pilot who perished in China during World War II. The book also details her unexpected discovery of a memorial dedicated to him near Kunming and her subsequent visit to the site with her late husband, Larry Ikels.
Judy shares insights into her writing process, including a pivotal moment when a friend and writing coach advised her to immerse herself in her father's final flight. The article highlights Judy's 28-year career with the U.S. Department of State and her experiences serving with her Foreign Service spouse living in El Salvador, Colombia, Venezuela, Mexico, Brazil, and Greece. Her narrative intertwines with broader themes of historical memory, family legacy and the enduring impact of war.
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