On the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II, CNN shared a poignant story that highlights both the personal and historical weight of that global conflict. In a reflective interview, veteran Robert Somrak sat down with reporter Stephanie Elam to recount his experiences aboard the USS Missouri, the battleship where Japan formally surrendered in 1945. Somrak’s memories, especially those tied to a surprise attack on his ship, serve as a powerful reminder of the human stories behind the war’s major events. His account, centered around a cherished memento he created in the aftermath of that attack, offers a deeply personal window into a pivotal moment in history.

Somrak served aboard the USS Missouri during some of the most intense periods of World War II. The vessel itself holds a significant place in military history, not only for its combat role but also for being the site of the official Japanese surrender. During the interview, Somrak recounted a harrowing moment when a kamikaze plane struck the ship. The impact was sudden and violent, a stark illustration of the dangers faced by those serving in the Pacific theater. According to CNN’s report, Somrak vividly remembered the chaos and shock of that day, a memory that has stayed with him for eight decades.

What makes Somrak’s story particularly compelling is the way he chose to preserve that memory. In the aftermath of the attack, he crafted a memento from the wreckage—a physical object imbued with deep emotional and historical significance. While the report does not detail the exact nature of this keepsake, its symbolic value is clear. For Somrak, it is more than a souvenir; it is a tangible link to a moment of survival, courage, and collective sacrifice. I found this detail striking, as it underscores how veterans often carry their experiences not just in memory, but in meaningful artifacts that help tell their stories.

Somrak’s recollections also serve to humanize the broader narrative of World War II. While history books often focus on dates, battles, and political decisions, personal accounts like his bring those events to life. The veteran’s perspective adds nuance to our understanding of what it meant to serve during a time of global upheaval. His memories of the kamikaze attack, and of witnessing Japan’s surrender aboard the same ship, bridge the gap between individual experience and historical milestone. These kinds of stories are essential for preserving the legacy of those who served and for educating future generations about the realities of war.

The interview is part of a larger CNN series marking the end of World War II, featuring a range of voices from the military community. Other segments include reflections from veterans, stories of heroism, and efforts to connect civilian and military experiences. One particularly moving piece featured an 11-year-old bringing a veteran to tears with a simple gesture of gratitude, highlighting the enduring impact of service on both those who served and those who remember. Another segment followed an Army football player who saved a driver from a burning car, illustrating how the values learned in service continue to shape lives long after active duty ends.

In the case of Robert Somrak, his story is a testament to resilience and remembrance. The memento he created is not just a relic of war; it is a symbol of personal history, crafted in the wake of trauma and carried through decades. His willingness to share that story on such a significant anniversary adds a layer of depth to our collective memory of World War II. It also emphasizes the importance of listening to veterans while we still have the opportunity. Their firsthand accounts offer insights that no textbook or documentary can fully capture.

The tone of CNN’s coverage is respectful and reflective, honoring the sacrifices made while acknowledging the passage of time. As the number of living World War II veterans continues to dwindle, stories like Somrak’s become even more valuable. They remind us that behind every historical event are individuals who lived through it, who made difficult choices, and who carry the weight of those experiences for the rest of their lives.

For those interested in military history, veteran experiences, or the legacy of the USS Missouri, this interview is a compelling watch. It adds a deeply human element to the story of World War II’s conclusion, grounded in one man’s memory and the object he created to preserve it. As we mark major anniversaries and reflect on the past, such personal narratives enrich our understanding and ensure that the lessons of history remain vivid and relevant.

Read more at cnn.com