They’re known as the Greatest Generation – those who lived and served during World War II.
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At Spirit of ’45 Day, a World War II program held at Allentown’s West Park, the couple re-enacted a famous kiss between a sailor and dental hygienist that happened in Times Square back in 1945.
“It’s a special day and there are going to be ceremonies from the Arlington National Cemetery all the way across the United States and even over in Europe”, Edward Nagy, Retired U.S. Army Major said.
Among those to respond was Norm Dupont of Manchester, who said he was 6 years old when word came of the war’s end.
“On this 70th anniversary of victory in World War II, let us recommit ourselves to the spirit that guided our nation through its darkest days and that lights our way into the future”, U.S. Sen. “We need to remember their sacrifice and honor their victory”.
“We always try to represent the American Legion – and never forget our brothers-in-arms”, he said.
The couple was married more than 36 years before William Cunningham died.
“When the war there stopped, they put me on a boat and sent me to the other place”, Burleigh said, referring to the Pacific where the fighting raged on with Japan.
Beatrice Moore, an honorary consul of France in Little Rock, thanked the veterans for their part in the liberation of France. Two World War II veterans were there, and hey say they came out to honor the friends they lost.
Sarah Jones, public affairs officer for the Arkansas Department of Veterans Affairs, said 147 World War II veterans attended Friday’s commemoration.
Birch’s mother and father are both buried at the cemetery.
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“America still depends on the men and women of the armed forces to defend our freedoms and our way of life”, she said.
