We are so thankful for the men and women who have served our country and defended our freedom!
For Veterans Day, we asked veterans across Sagora communities to share their experiences with us, including the lessons they learned and their favorite memories from their time in the US Armed Forces. We’re so thankful for those who shared their experiences with us. Here are the stories from veterans at The Westmore Senior Living in Fort Worth, Texas.
John M. served in the Coast Guard and Navy reserves during World War II, acting as a gunner’s mate in the Atlantic Theater. His service taught him how to work hard and shoot a gun – a skill that would later come in handy when he took up hunting.
Carl L. served in the Army from 1956-1958. He followed in the footsteps of his four older brothers, though they served in the Navy. He says that he learned discipline and the value of an education by going back to college after his discharge on the GI Bill.
Hugh P. served in the Army from 1966-1970, winning an Army commendation medal.
Daniel V. served in the Army from 1951-1953 as a member of the 176th Armored Field Artillery. He achieved the rank of Staff Sergeant and earned combat ribbons in Korea. He arrived back in the United States on his birthday.
Harry T. served in the Marines from 1947-1952, seeing action in Korea.
Tom S. served as a dentist at Sheppard Air Force Base in Wichita Falls, Texas as part of his duties with the US Air Force.
Winford J. served in the Navy and Air Force from 1949-1970. In the Air Force, he served as a radar mechanic, repairing B-52 aircraft.
Delores H. served in the Navy from 1953-1956, meeting her husband while in the service. She was a Mrs. Navy contestant.
Ray P. served in the Air Force from 1950-1971, working on B-52 bombers in support of US operations in Vietnam. He made many friends, some of whom he still keeps in contact with, and says he is proud to be an American.
Sherman R. served in the Army as a company clerk for a medical company. He said he learned to have tremendous respect for the military and became very disciplined because of his service.
John D. served in the Air Force as a weather observer in addition to duties in munitions and engineering during his 23 years with the branch. He enjoyed getting an education and hands-on experience in technical skills and leadership skills.
Henry R. served in the Air Force for 20 years, working as an avionics mechanic for fighter jets. He says the skills he learned in the service made it very easy for him to find jobs in the electrical fields.
Donald B. served in both the Army and the Navy, joining the Navy in 1969 and the Army in 1975.
Robert “Bob” P. spent three years in the Army, working in the research and development of artillery components. He said that it was hard to maintain friendships with some people due to the friction between the military and anti-war protestors, but overall, “I have a very good experience.” He credits the Army with helping him grow up and mature.