Yuma, Arizona (AZ Family) — Two World War II veterans were honored in a Yuma County parade Monday morning.
For 75 years, the VFW Post has Wellton, Arizonahas celebrated veterans. This Veterans Day was no exception.
Jimmy Robinson, 104, is a World War II U.S. Air Force veteran. Bill Hodson, 102, served in the Marines during the same war. The two were honored as grand marshals in Welton’s Veterans Day Parade this year.
People lined the streets to cheer them on and thank them for their service.
“I feel really lucky,” Robinson said.
Robinson joined the Air Force at the age of 21.
“I had to go overseas on the Queen Elizabeth,” Robinson said. Memories that I remember like it was yesterday.
The Queen Elizabeth was one of the largest ships during World War II, transporting hundreds of thousands of troops. But this Veterans Day, Robinson remembered the service members who didn’t come home.
“I lost 97 men, young men, and sometimes that hits me pretty hard,” Robinson said.
Robinson served in combat for four years.
Welton VFW Commander Tracy Sparks knows how emotional the day can be. That’s why she made sure the two veterans were surrounded by love.
“It’s such an honor just to have those two still alive with us. It’s history, so it’s great to hear their stories,” Sparks said.
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