Video: Local Veteran Honored After 37 Years Of Service

CALEDONIA, Miss. (WCBI)- Family and friends of a Caledonia veteran organized a huge surprise flag dedication for a true, American hero.

For 37 years, Chief Warrant Officer Robert Starr served in the U.S. Army. Those who know Starr say he’s always got something to say, but Friday, as he held back tears, he was left speechless.

“All I could say is, it felt like home again. I felt like I was back in the service,” said Robert Starr.

Emotions filled Chief Warrant Officer 4, Robert Starr as he saw members of the Mississippi State Guard outside his Lowndes County home. There to greet a fellow veteran and repay a debt from years gone by.

“All choked up. Because many days I’ve saluted that flag, carried it in parades and I proudly carry it,” said Starr.

Starr courageously served in the United States Army, serving in World War II, the Korean war and in Vietnam.

“He was part of the group that was going to invade Japan,” said his son-in-law William Winters.

After coming home from Vietnam, Starr went on with life. There were no parades or banners, like we see today. Command Sgt. Major Robert Minteer, says Friday was the homecoming Starr never got.

“Anybody that’s served 37 years for the defense of his country, and not be welcomed home from Vietnam,which a lot of us didn’t. It was a great honor to present the flag of the United States for his service,” said CSM Robert Minteer.

The Flag is more than a precious gift. As one waves in Starr’s front yard, he says it’s something he’ll always stand for.

“I learned to love it and defend it. That’s what we did when we went to war,” said Starr.

Starr’s wife of nearly 70 years stood by his side through each deployment. Though it had it’s challenges, Catherine Starr says she is honored to be his wife and supports him to this day.

“He loved the military and he’d go back today if he could,” said Starr.

At 95, this Caledonia veteran shows nothing but true love for his country and American heroism.

“If I could go back today and was able, I would volunteer again. I volunteered for all three wars,” said Starr.

Though he’s unable to serve, Starr found the strength to rise up and give a salute with other service members.

Their children came from West Virginia, Arizona and Ohio for the event. The county sheriff and city mayor also attended the celebration.