With the red, white and blue waving proudly, the city of Harrison was immersed in star-spangled celebration on America’s 250th birthday. This year, 100-year-old Navy veteran Jerry Smith held the seat of honor as the city’s annual July 4 parade made its way through the streets.
A Life of Service
Smith’s memories have begun to fade with time. But his service has never been forgotten by the community in southwest Ohio. He served on the USS Cotten in the Pacific Theater during the war. Eight decades later, his niece, Gloria Record, now helps to bridge the gap ahead into the future for the Greatest Generation and those who will follow.
Living through one of this country’s most iconic eras of national sacrifice, Jerry speaks simply of service. “A few men that I knew that served in World War II aren’t here anymore. It’s a real pleasure to me just to be around.”
Original reporting: WLWT Cincinnati — read the source article.
