Veterans keeping the spirit of 1945 alive

PINE BELT, Miss. - World War II Veterans from across the Pine Belt remembered the spirit of 1945 Friday.

Veterans honored a special time in the country's history as they stood silent honoring the American flag.

World War II Veteran Carl Cutrer said, "It is comforting to know that we are being remembered, even though I do not expect anything from it."

Cutrer is a Navy veteran who fought in the war for 4 years, and just like many men and women who served during that period they remember the 1945 victory.

He said, "Just like I enjoyed serving my country, I am appreciating anyone or any group that says thank you for serving."

Mississippi Adjutant General, Augustus Collins said the spirit of 1945 is a time where no veteran should be forgotten.

"It was a tough time, not only here in Hattiesburg, but across our entire country" said General Collins.

He added, "They endured the Great Depression, and they had to go and fight a world war, it just shows the metal, the people of this country had during that period of time."

A former child star, Michael Connor Humphreys of the motion picture Forrest Gump was a guest speaker.

"There is not as many of them left, soon they will be gone all together, we really need to recognize those that are still left, and the sacrifices they made for the world today" said Humphreys.

Keeping the spirit of 1945 alive hits close to home for Humphreys, as he also served as a veteran himself in Iraq.

"I am from the current generation of Iraq and Afghanistan having been there myself" said Humphreys.

He added, "I have had first hand experience, of how much of an impact it can have on you, and getting that experience."

The celebration will continue into the weekend for the men and women of 1945.

Veterans will also celebrate at Saenger Theater.