Trent Lott: “When we dedicated the National World War II Memorial and commemorated the 60th anniversary of D-Day, much was made of…”

“When we dedicated the National World War II Memorial and commemorated the 60th anniversary of D-Day, much was made of the fact that this Nation loses an average of over 1,000 World War II veterans every day. Just last week, we honored the passing of one of the greatest members of that great generation, President Ronald Wilson Reagan. I want to take this opportunity to recognize the passing of another great member of that great generation, Thurston Esco Womble. When President Reagan spoke at the 40th anniversary of D-Day, he memorably referred to the assembled veterans as 'the boys . . ., the heroes who helped end a war.' Thurston Womble was one of those boys, one of this Nation's unsung World War II veterans who helped ensure the United States of America maintained its freedom and way of life during a very difficult time in our Nation's history. Mr. Womble's service began prior to Pearl Harbor, when he enlisted in the Navy in March, 1941.”