Voices of WWII Veterans: Home - Contents - Excerpts - Introduction - Preface

INTRODUCTION

World War II embraced and changed the lives of millions of Americans. Young men were called in from the farms and cities. Young women were encouraged to support the military both at home and abroad. Most were filled with a pulse of patriotism, were incredibly naïve, and had never been away from their homes and families. All of them believed they could make a difference.

Most World War II veterans, now in their seventies, eighties, and nineties, experienced their adolescence through the lens of a financial hailstorm that pockmarked the United States and the world. Some were deeply aware of the crisis; others lived in a state of poverty that made the Great Depression seem almost incidental. World War II became the equalizer that brought this generation to maturity through hardships and challenges none could have anticipated.

I present to you twenty individuals who share a common history, with very unique impressions. Collectively, they helped assure freedom for our country. Individually, they offer a voice of experience that is unique to their histories, their personalities, and their perceptions.These many years later, they once again face the stunning realization that America is not invulnerable to attack. Though no longer able to enter battle themselves, they remain interested and concerned about the young men and women who are, once again, being asked to leave their homes and dreams to step into harm’s way.

Sadly, a number of the veterans, as well as several spouses, in this book have passed away since the project began. Their loss emphasizes the urgency with which these stories need to be recorded.