Catching a glint of silver in the woods last fall saw the completion of an epic WWII tale over seven decades in the making. An American soldier some 76 years ago lost a silver bracelet of sentimental value in a forest in what was then Czechoslovakia. For many years, the endeared item and other effects lay hidden, estranged from their owner. Fierce fighting in Europe and the loss of many friends led up to that soldier’s guarding a prisoner of war camp where 3,500 Germans were being held. It was here that his pack, containing pistol, the said silver bracelet, and other war apparel, was stolen. Eventually, American forces handed the camp to communist Red Army allies, and in 1946, this particular soldier, originally from New Mexico, returned home and married his love. They had three children, and he all but forgot about his lost possessions. Decades passed. Then, in October 2021, metal …