Iowa Man Turning 100 Reflects On WWII, Near-Death Experience

If you have a family member who served in WWII, you know just how common "near-death" experience stories are. Many of the brave Americans who served this country have shared their story.

It's important to remember these stories and to always be willing to listen. I was lucky enough to have a chat with Vernon Jacob Truemper earlier this year.

Vernon Truemper will be turning 100 years old this December. He had a lot to share, and a lot of photos.

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Vernon is actually my great-grandfather, and I was able to sit down with him for an hour and talk with him about his life. I am also very blessed to have someone in my life who is 99 years old, and still in great health. Vernon still lives on his own and has a great memory.

I am so proud of my great-grandfather and am so blessed to still have him in my life. His story about his life always brings my family closer.

One story that always grabbed my attention as a kid is about how during a few different training missions my great-grandfather had a few close calls. One time this close call nearly took his life. He survived and had some choice words for the man who almost caused a major accident.

My grandfather always would laugh about this because he yelled at a superior officer who could have gotten him in a lot of trouble, but the superior felt so bad about almost getting him killed he just stood there and let him yell.

According to the National WW2 Museum, there are only 170,000 WWII vets still Alive. Getting to talk to Veron Truemper was truly a pleasure and honor.

Thank you to all the brave men and women who have served this country. Thank you for sharing your stories. If you or someone you know would like to share their story, please let us know on our app!

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