Centenarian WWII Veterans Share Combat Histories Across US, Puerto Rico

Several centenarian veterans from World War II continue to share their unique experiences as the number of surviving veterans dwindles. Robert Irwin, who recently celebrated his 100th birthday, served as a B-24 gunner and pilot in World War II and the Korean War, surviving numerous dangerous missions. Andrés González Vega, a 101-year-old Puerto Rican veteran, is documenting his life and wartime experiences while also reflecting on racial discrimination faced post-war. Eli Rauzon, 102, shared stories from his service in the U.S. Navy during World War II, including submarine repair work in both the Atlantic and Pacific theaters. These veterans emphasize the importance of preserving their history and educating younger generations about their sacrifices and the realities of war. Additionally, Vietnam veteran Robert Randlett offers a perspective on how media coverage and personal biases have shaped public understanding of the Vietnam War, aiming to provide a more nuanced historical account through his book.