Telling their story

We have great admiration for those who've served in the armed forces. These men and women, from times of peace to times of war, have played an important in preserving freedom. For their commitment and sacrifice we're grateful.

If you talk to some veterans, you might here them deflect praise. This was the case recently when six Marines from World War II met in Cape Girardeau to share their stories, including thoughts from the famous battle of Iwo Jima.

Moderated by Frank Nickell, a professor of history and the director of the Center for Regional History at Southeast Missouri State University, the veterans referred to the ones who lost their lives in battle as the heroes.

"We did what we had to do," said Robert Perrin of Richmond, Va. "We did what we were supposed to do, and that's it."

While those who didn't make it home from the war are certainly heroes, we believe these men are too.

The group gathers annually to share stories. Rose Theatre in Cape Girardeau was the meeting place this year, and there were cameras on hand to video the discussion for the River Tales, a Southeast news magazine series produced by the university's television and film students and faculty.

The Southeast Missourian also captured some video from the talk. Go to semissourian.com to watch.

We're grateful the men, who have been longtime friends, chose to meet here this year. Their remarkable stories are worth telling, and retelling for years to come.

To them and all those who have served or are serving in the military, thank you and God bless.