Pair Of World War II Vets Share Feelings On Memorial Day
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NORTH TEXAS(CBSDFW.COM) - If you've caught yourself saying, "Happy Memorial Day," you're not alone but ask most any veteran and they'll tell you this is not a happy holiday.
Bob Lawson served in the Navy during World War II.
"I went in at 17-years-old just before the war ended," says Lawson.
Sidney Achee served in the Army during World War II and well beyond.
"I was in 30 years," says Achee.
Lawson worked on electronics at a Navy air station at the end of World War II. Achee served in that war as well as Korea and Vietnam. In Vietnam he commanded helicopters in combat.
"That was the first war I was in that I experienced losing people due to combat action," says Achee.
They are two different military experiences but the men share a common bond of gratitude to the men and women who gave their lives serving America.
"A lot of people say happy Memorial Day, but its really not a happy day," says Achee. "It's the remembrance of all of those who paid the ultimate price."
"All of those people died in defense of our liberties," says Lawson.
"I had men under me I lost," says Achee. "It was very traumatic to write letters to their families telling them what happened and all."
Both men pause and remember. Even though they each served for many years, they say others sacrificed far more.
"That is a day that we remember and celebrate all of those who gave their lives for us," says Lawson. "We stop and think how lucky we are to have the freedom that we have in this country and we realize the reason for it is because of those people who defended it for us."
Achee adds, "You think of those people especially and the families that they left behind. So, its very moving as far as I'm concerned and not one you set off firecrackers and celebrate. It's more for remembrance."
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