WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. — The 80th Anniversary of D-Day is Thursday. Many historians refer to this day as the end of the beginning of World War II. While many WWII Vets are no longer here, one who lives in Winston-Salem shared his story.
Vernon Cooper recently turned 100 years old, but back when he was 18, times were a lot different.
"I went in in Southern Italy on the far side of the boot and we went up to Naples," Cooper recalled.
Cooper served in the heart of World War II as a member of the Army Air Corps which turned into the Army Air Forces.
"I was in Italy during D-Day, I would like to have gone back there right now, but it would be a little too much for me.
It's been 80 years since troops invaded the beaches of Normandy marking the beginning of the end.
"You knew it was coming eventually and when it came you thought okay this is it, we're going all the way, and we did," said Cooper.
Many Veterans who survived that day have since passed on.
"I'm the only one left of our group, they all died, not because of the war, but because of age," Cooper exclaimed.
As one of the last left within the greatest generation, Cooper declares Americans honor the anniversary.
"They should take their hats off and thank all the guys that helped bring this country to what it is, whatever it is now, I'm not sure," he said.