Pine Belt World War II veterans honored

Retired Marine Cpl. Tommy Johnson, 92, who served in the Pacific during World War II, said he was glad to be at a Friday ceremony where local World War II veterans received a token and a certificate.

“I think they ought to honor (us),” the Hattiesburg resident said. “We gave up a lot. When you go in at 18 and 19, you miss a lot. I think it’s a sacrifice.”

Twenty-six World War II veterans were honored at the Oak Grove Senior and Veterans Center for a second year. The center hosted the luncheon and award ceremony in partnership with St. Joseph Hospice of South Mississippi and other sponsors.

“We want to honor World War II veterans for their service in liberating France, Germany, Italy — the European countries,” center director Joe Ventura said. “I was born in Italy around World War II, and I saw these guys coming to my own town. I saw them come to liberate.

“That was the greatest generation, and I am honored to have them here today.”

About 120 people showed up for the ceremony and luncheon, which included speakers such as Rep. Brad Touchstone, R-Hattiesburg.

“I have never worn the uniform. I have never served in the military,” he said. “I will never fully understand the bravery and the sacrifice. But I can give you my sincere thanks and appreciation.

“This event is for you, and it’s our opportunity to show our gratitude.”

Army infantry soldier Edwin Bodie, 89, of Hattiesburg served in the European Theater. He said the fighting in the Middle East has gone on too long.

“(We) did the job. It was done right,” he said. “In four years, World War II was over with.”

Lamar County Circuit Clerk Martin Hankins addressed the crowd.

“Both my grandfathers had the opportunity to serve in World War II,” he said. “Some of my most cherished memories are hearing World War II stories. There are so many things we can learn from World War II veterans.”

Joe Walker, military representative from HUMANA/Tricare, said World War II was one of the ultimate events in world history.

“We can conclude without reservation, the World War II generation is by far the greatest generation in history,” he said. “We as a people must recognize the sacrifices that have been made for us.”

Walker said the number of World War II veterans in Mississippi is dwindling, with only about 5,500 left in the state.

One of those is Robert Clunie, 80, a Navy corpsman, who was at Friday’s event.

“I really believe it was the finest generation to serve,” he said. “I mean, it was the last war we won. (Serving) was just what you did. You have no idea how you surrendered yourself.”

Jane Bradley, 67, of Hattiesburg was also at the ceremony, in memory of her deceased father, a decorated World War II Army veteran.

“I want to honor the World War II veterans and represent my father who is not able to be here,” she said. “The World War II veterans saved the world for the rest of us. We would not be here if not for them.”

Keynote speaker Maj. Gen. Augustus Collins, adjutant general of Mississippi, said the World War II veterans weren’t afraid to go to war, despite the devastation of Pearl Harbor.

“If there’s going to be a war — if somebody needs to go, then send me (they said),” he said. “The country is the greatest country on the face of this Earth, and it’s because of this greatest generation — you gave us that.”