RICHMOND, Va. — World War II veteran David Poole celebrated both his 100th birthday and Veterans Day on Monday during the annual ceremony at the Virginia War Memorial in Richmond.
Poole, who served as a crew chief in the Army Air Force, was recognized for his service alongside dozens of other veterans in an fitting tribute that included music, applause, and a flyover by military aircraft.
"I’m really being recognized a lot more than I expected and I don’t feel like I’m 100 years old," Poole said.
Poole’s military service took him across Europe, where he flew on a C-47 transport plane and participated in significant battles, including D-Day and the Battle of the Bulge.
He recalled the dangers of his missions, but also the camaraderie and lighter moments, such as playing baseball against other military teams after the fighting ended.
"We participated in those battles and, like everybody else, there was always a chance of you being shot down," Poole said. "We didn’t lose any planes or any personnel in our squadron."
As Poole reflected on his time in service, he fondly remembered the men he served with.
"We had a lot of fun together with John, Bill, Joe, and myself and a couple other guys. We went around together," Poole said.
Poole’s birthday and Veterans Day celebration also served as a reminder of the sacrifices made by veterans across generations.
WATCH: Full interview with David Poole
"Our veterans have shown us that freedom isn't simply handed down from one generation to the next. It is preserved through the service, sacrifice, and acts of courage," said Maj. Gen. James Ring, Adjutant General of the Virginia National Guard, one of the ceremony's speakers.
Those comments ring true with some of the other veterans in attendance, including Calvin Winfree, Sr., 90, a former Air Force serviceman, and his son-in-law Miles Jones, Jr., a retired Army Master Sergeant.
Winfree served in the Air Force for four years as a B-29 mechanic, while Jones retired in 2014 as a Master Sergeant after 25 years as a preventive medicine specialist.
"We deal with any kind of thing that can affect soldiers or affects the fighting strength," said Jones. "I wouldn't trade it for anything. It was a great experience."
Even though both men live in Richmond, Monday was their first time visiting the memorial's amphitheater.
"I've seen the place and passed by it 100 times, but I never stopped," said Winfrey. "I'm enjoying it."
"This is a very beautiful spot. Great job," added Jones.
Jones, who married Winfree's daughter after they were high school sweethearts at John Marshall High School, said he wanted to bring his father-in-law so that he could be honored and celebrated with other veterans.
"If it wasn’t for sacrifices like him, the things he did, I wouldn’t be able to join the military in the 80s and do the things I’ve done," Jones said. "I honor veterans like him that came before me, especially African-American veterans to pave the way and help facilitate my being a military veteran."
Winfree, reflecting on his own time in service, said the day meant a lot to him.
"It means a lot to me, because I just feel that I had some... was able to protect this country," he said. "To see that the country was a better country."
If you missed the service, you can watch it below.
The 68th annual Commonwealth's Veterans Day Ceremony was held at 11 a.m. at the Virginia War Memorial in Richmond.
The ceremony honored all men and women who served or continue to serve in the U.S. armed forces.
Speakers at the 2024 ceremony include:
- General Gary M. Brito, Commanding General, U.S. Army Training and Doctrine Command (TRADOC), Joint Base Langley-Eustis
- Major General James W. Ring, Adjutant General of Virginia
- Master of Ceremonies: Dr. Clay Mountcastle, Director, Virginia War Memorial
- Musical performances by Virginia Opry performers, Gentlemen South and Virginia National Guard 29th Division Band
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