‘We had a good run’: World War II veterans cross paths 82 years after serving

CHICAGO (WBBM) – A pair of veterans who fought in World War II have finally crossed paths again.

Willard Smith and Robert Miller recently reunited at Tabor Hills, a health care facility in suburban Chicago.

The two had originally met 82 years ago and more than 8,000 miles from where they are now.

As teenagers, Smith and Miller had fought in the Pacific Theater of World War II. Both had fought in the Battle of Luzon in the Philippines.

“They said you look too young to fight this war,” Miller said. “And it was probably true.”

Smith said he was 18 years old at the time of the war.

“Now, I’m 100 years old,” he said. “Oh, man. Didn’t think I’d make it that far.”

Smith celebrated his birthday recently, while Miller will see his next month.

“I’m looking forward to it to a certain degree,” Miller said.

After serving during the war, the two separated and started families. They both went on to become teachers, with Smith teaching art and Miller teaching science.

The two have changed a lot over the years, but coming back together now, they’ve both become fast friends.

“We had a good run, I think, for a couple of soldiers,” Smith said.

Stories from those who fought in World War II are more precious than ever as the already small number of surviving veterans continues to dwindle every week.