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Tribute wall brings history home for 97-year-old WWII veteran

When it comes to thanking the nation's veterans, some would say we can never do it enough.

Sean Tracy has taken that gratitude to a whole new level.

He travels throughout the Midwest recording veterans’ oral histories and crafting tribute walls at Independence Village and StoryPoint, senior living communities where he serves as the Veteran Project coordinator.

Harold Becker holds a picture of one of the ships that he served on during World War II.
Credit Mercedes Mejia / Michigan Radio
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Michigan Radio
Harold Becker holds a picture of one of the ships that he served on during World War II.

Harold Becker is one such veteran. Becker was a test pilot and fighter pilot for the Navy during WWII. Becker and Tracy joined Stateside to talk about the importance of documenting veterans’ stories.

There is no replacement for hearing “from a living, breathing, piece of history,” said Tracy.

As for Becker, he said that he hadn't shared much of his story with his family. 

"To me, war is hell. And I coined that expression, as well you know. But I didn't want the children to be exposed to the ugliness of war," explained Becker.  

Listen above to hear more details on Tracy’s project and Becker’s recollections of his life during and after the Navy. 

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Stateside is produced daily by a dedicated group of producers and production assistants. Listen daily, on-air, at 3 and 8 p.m., or subscribe to the daily podcast wherever you like to listen.
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