The National Museum of the Pacific War presents an interview with Ray Thomas. Thomas joined the Army in 1943. He completed Gas School, learning how to recognize mustard gas, tear gas and chlorine gas. He served with the 96th Reconnaissance Troop, 96th Division. They worked with half-tracks, armored cars and jeeps. They participated in the Battles of Leyte and Okinawa. Thomas returned to the US and was discharged in late 1945.

The National Museum of the Pacific War presents an interview with Frederick Vinson. Vinson joined the Navy in March of 1942. He completed Midshipmen’s school, Recognition school and Gunnery school. He was assigned to Destroyer Squadron 25. Vinson served as a Lieutenant Senior Grade Squadron Gunnery Officer aboard the USS John Rodgers (DD-574). In 1943 they raided Marcus Island, Tarawa and Wake Island, participated in the Bougainville and Gilbert Islands campaigns. Going into 1944 they were involved with the Marshall Islands Campaign, the Battle of Kwajalein, the Guadalcanal Campaign and the Battle of Guam where they received a commendation for their work. They continued on through the Battle of Leyte Gulf. In 1945 they participated in the Battles of Iwo Jima and Okinawa. Vinson provides vivid details of his experiences through each of these battles. He was discharged in September of 1945.

The National Museum of the pacific War presents an interview with William Williams. Williams joined the Navy in December 1941. After electrician’s training, he operated a film projector for recruits at San Diego before being assigned to the USS Cheleb (AKA-138). While aboard the Cheleb, Williams participated in a few invasions: Tarawa, the Marshall Islands. He was transferred to the USS Benevolence (AH-13). After the war, Williams stayed in the reserve and was recalled to active duty for the Korean War.

Interview with Orbie Reeves, a World War II veteran from Camp Verde, Texas. Reeves speaks of his time growing up in the Camp Verde area, his work as a butcher at the Kerrville State Hospital, and his experience serving in the Philippines during World War II.