Family members and Veteran caregivers gathered at the Northwest Louisiana Veterans Home in Bossier City, Louisiana, to pay tribute to four World War II-era residents.
All eyes were on Veterans Alfred Procell, 101; Albert Smith, 101; Billie Taylor, 100; and Robert “Bob” Robertson, 100. Between them, the Veterans have 402 years of combined life experience to celebrate.
“These Veterans are truly a living encyclopedia of history, wisdom and experience,” said Kim Lane, associate director of the Overton Brooks VA Medical Center in neighboring Shreveport, where many of the facility’s residence receive their care.
Each Veteran received a framed proclamation and coin signed by VA Secretary Doug Collins to celebrate their life achievements.
The honorees
Robertson, a Navy Veteran, spent time as an engineer aboard the vessel “Landing Ship Medium 310” in the Pacific during his service.
“If the war hadn’t ended when it did, I probably wouldn’t be sitting here, had they not dropped the bomb on Japan,” Robertson said.
He credits his longevity to never drinking or smoking and some fortunate genetics.
“My dad lived to 103,” Robertson added.
Robertson, Smith and Procell each served in the Navy, while Taylor had a career in the Air Force.
“We’re grateful for the time they have spent with us here at the Veterans Home,” said Wesley Pepitone, administrator of the state-run Veterans home.
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Thank you to those men. Vietnam Veteran here. 1972-73.
Check out my Uncle, George VanVeKoven, 101 yrs old, Chief Master Sergeant, U.S. Army Air Corps, US Air Force, now living in Wilmington NC; he served in WW-II; Korea; Vietnam.
During WW-II he was in England planning Bombing raids; He was in Korea and in Vietnam during those wars.
William,
I would like to interview your uncle for the National WWII Memorial in Washington, DC. How could I contact him?
Thank you! Each and every one of you!
Your sacrifice is appreciated more today than ever before !
God bless you.
William
I’m honored to see this and as a proud Vietnam Veteran These are definitely the kid of Veterans that need be honored.
No matter how old you are, we will never forget you. We are free because you were there.
Reaching the age of 100 or more along with having served in WW II makes you heroes in my mind. Thanks for your service to our country. Best wishes always to you four.
Thank you so very much to each one of you. Your service during this critical period is greatly appreciated. I wish you all the best!