David Westheimer, a renowned novelist, penned a plethora of captivating works, including the acclaimed novel "Von Ryan's Express", which was later adapted into a film in 1965, starring the iconic Frank Sinatra. Additionally, his literary endeavors included "My Sweet Charlie", a novel that was transformed into a Broadway play and subsequently a TV movie in 1970, starring the talented Patty Duke, who received an Emmy Award for her performance.
Westheimer's writing career was marked by a diverse range of titles, such as "Summer on the Water", "Sitting It Out", and "Delay En Route", showcasing his versatility as a storyteller.
However, it was his personal experiences during World War II that greatly influenced his writing. As a navigator in the US Army Air Force, Westheimer was part of a B-24 bomber crew that was tragically shot down by Italian fighter planes. He spent a harrowing 28 months in Italian and German POW camps, an ordeal that would later serve as the inspiration for his novel "Von Ryan's Express".
Beyond his literary pursuits, Westheimer also made a name for himself as an editor and columnist for The Houston Post, solidifying his reputation as a multifaceted individual with a passion for storytelling and journalism.
David Westheimer's remarkable life, marked by both personal struggle and literary success, serves as a testament to the enduring power of the human spirit.
