USVI: USVI WWII vets honored

World War II veterans who have waited decades to be paid tribute for putting their lives on the line in service to the U.S. armed forces, finally had their day as they watched live broadcasts of the official dedication of a national memorial in Washington, D.C., to honor them.

The National World War II Memorial, which covers 7.4 acres and cost $172 million, consists of 56 17-foot-high stone pillars in recognition of every state and territory and the 16 million Americans who served in the war.

In conjunction with the dedication Saturday, events were organized by the American Legion on all three islands, including breakfast and luncheon ceremonies for local World War II veterans and their friends and families.

Austin "Babe" Monsanto was among the many World War II veterans huddled at American Legion Post 90 in Sub Base who trained their eyes to CNN coverage of the event, featuring talks by President Bush, journalist Tom Brokaw and actor Tom Hanks. Post 90 also held a formal breakfast ceremony at Palms Court Harborview Hotel on Saturday morning.

"It's been a long time coming, and the veterans are well-deserving," Monsanto said during the luncheon. "They made a big sacrifice here in the Virgin Islands."

Emile Padillo, 88, agreed. "I think very much of it because, after all, that was very important to us. It was the first time in the Virgin Islands that men were recruited in the Army. We went because we knew the Army needed us."