What Independence Means to Veterans

Tools

Story Published: Jul 6, 2008 at 4:48 PM MST

Story Updated: Nov 20, 2008 at 10:45 PM MST

By Anthony Congi

Video

Inside the walls of the Lincoln Court retirement center are many veterans who live very quiet lives today.
But close to 65 years ago, these were the men who our country called on to defend our freedom in World War II: Garth McKinney, U.S. Navy, second class, Nick DeFilippis, private- United States Army, Joe Frey, pilot, United States Air Core, Ralph Kauer, captain, U.S. Army and Stacey Bliss, sargent, U.S. Army.
Though they all came from different backgrounds and all had different stories from their time spent in the service, all of them say they served with pride. And that the fourth of July is a special time for them to look back and recognize the sacrifices they and so many others made.
DeFilippis: "It means more than anything that we fought for our country and that it's the best thing in the world."
Joe Frey was only paid 21 dollars a month serving as a bomber pilot in the war. A true defender of freedom, who still has strong emotional attachments for the service he provided.
Frey: "I love this country, I love this flag. When they play the song 'America the Beautiful', I get tears in my eyes."
Others still seems plagued, even haunted by their memories which still weigh heavy on their minds to this day.
McKinney: "I thought a lot about what I tried to do back in the service, and I think about that quite a bit."
Bliss: "I am proud of myself for being able to give part of my life to the United States."
These veterans also told me they might not understand the reasons to why we are currently fighting, but thank those who have taken their places in continuing to defend our freedom, our lives and our country.
Kauer: "We're a free people and we live in the promised land. The lord will bless us and he always has. And I think he always will if we live our lives and do what we should."
The veterans I spoke with said that too often, people seem to forget about the many who have, and who are currently serving our country. They say everyday soldiers are coming home and all of us should take the time and truly thank them for all they do for us.

Current Weather

Current Temp 37.0 °F

Fair

Video

More Weather

Current Weather

More Weather

Upload directly from your mobile device.

Learn how

YouNews

This content requires the latest Adobe Flash Player and a browser with JavaScript enabled. Click here for a free download of the latest Adobe Flash Player.