Today’s #VeteranOfTheDay is Army Air Forces Veteran Robert Mossi Alexander.
Robert served with the 25th Infantry Division during World War II. In an interview for the Veterans History Project, he shared his memories of serving in the war.
Robert was sent to basic training in Sheppard Field, Texas before being deployed to the Philippines. En route to Luzon, he recalled a close encounter with two floating Japanese mines on their path. Fortunately, the captain was able to move them out of harm’s way. Robert said, “So that was my second time I had avoided death in the Army.”
In Manila, Robert and his unit put in airstrips. “I confess to being in a labor battalion doing labor. But it was a meaningful thing because we were preparing those airfields for takeoffs to Japan.”
After he returned home, Robert joined the Army Reserves and served from 1950 – 52. During that time he graduated from Howard University and later on from Georgetown Law School. Robert said the benefits he received from the GI Bill were “very meaningful.” Along with his education, he and his wife also bought their first house on the GI Bill.
Robert passed away in 2014.
We honor his service.
Nominate a Veteran for #VeteranOfTheDay
Do you want to light up the face of a special Veteran? Have you been wondering how to tell your Veteran they are special to you? You’re in luck! VA’s #VeteranOfTheDay social media feature is an opportunity to highlight your Veteran and his/her service.
It’s easy to nominate a Veteran. All it takes is an email to newmedia@va.gov with as much information as you can put together, along with some good photos. Visit our blog post about nominating for how to create the best submission.
Veterans History Project
This #VeteranOfTheDay profile was created with interviews submitted to the Veterans History Project. The project collects, preserves, and makes accessible the personal accounts of American war Veterans so that future generations may hear directly from veterans and better understand the realities of war. Find out more at http://www.loc.gov/vets/.
Graphic created by Carl J. Valentino: Carl J. Valentino is a student at the University of Delaware with a Major in International Business and a Minor in Graphic Design.
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