I interviewed Mr. Raymond Kerr, a local World War II veteran. It was a very enlightening experience. Here is my interview.

Me (Raevyn O.): What was your rank?

Kerr: I’m a Leutenant Commander.

R: How many years did you serve, and in what branch?

K: I served about fifteen in the Navy. But I was in active duty about four.

R: Why did you join the military?

K: When I went into the military, they were drafting people. But I wanted to fly, so I joined the Navy before they drafted me,

R: What were your expectations  for service, and how did they differ from what it was actually like?

K: I expected it to be hard and it was ten times as hard as I expected. The Navy sent me to four universities.

R: What was your favorite part of service?

K: Flying.

R: What was your least favorite part of service?

K:  Killing people.

R: How did you change?

K: I grew up from eighteen until I was in the midst of the fighting at 21.

R: What was the most useful lesson you learned?

K; I had to study hard at my four colleges. I didn’t study as hard as I could have in high school..

R:How could the modern military be improved as a whole?

K:  It’s changed a lot since I was in, and I don’t know all the changes.

R:If you could give new recruits one piece of advice, what would it be?

K: Study harder so you know more so you’re more prepared for life.

R:Who or what did you miss most?

K: The family. I didn’t see my family for a couple years.

R:How have war tactics changed in the past decades?

K: I helped it change, in certain respects. I had a lot of influence as a Navy pilot, and they took suggestions.

Although it was somewhat difficult to talk to someone I didn't know well, I was very happy to learn about a perspective I hadn't considered. Speaking face to face with a veteran of our country was a worthwhile experience. Thank you, Mr. Kerr for your service to our country.