World War II Veteran’s Message and Tribute

World War II veteran David Yoho delivered an emotional message over Memorial Day weekend, urging younger generations to remember the sacrifices of those who served. “Tell them about veterans and say to them that we gave up our yesterdays for your tomorrows,” said Yoho, who is set to turn 98 in August. Speaking in the rain at the National World War II Memorial in Washington, D.C., Yoho held back tears as he saluted.

Yoho’s speech paid tribute to over 16 million Americans who served in the military after Pearl Harbor and the hundreds of thousands who did not return. He joined the service at just 16 years old, highlighting how recruiting ages were lowered due to the need for manpower. “When you’re 16, you’re a child playfully in your streets, and the day you enter the military, that stops,” he mentioned.

Addressing the audience from the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, Yoho honored the dedication of all who attended despite the rain. He pointedly thanked them for their presence and encouraged them to share their experience with others.

Yoho also acknowledged the sacrifices of the U.S. Merchant Marines, noting that 250,000 served, enduring significant losses. He cited the perilous Murmansk Run as an example of their bravery. He emphasized, “Toll the bell for every military unit.”

He reflected on the attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, which marked America’s entrance into the war. “We were a country of 130 million and we put 16,200,000 of them in uniform, and 440,000 of them didn’t come home,” he stated.

Recalling the high mortality rate among Merchant Marines, Yoho mentioned the loss of 733 ships. He expressed gratitude for surviving to nearly 98, saying, “I have a deep affection for everything here and what they stand for.”