On Veterans Day, ceremonies across western Wisconsin honored the men and women who’ve served our country. One of them connected a World War II vet with some shining proof of his bravery.

On Tuesday, the Disabled American Veterans in Menomonie welcomed the special guest of honor – 83-year-old Merlin Wahlund. The Pepin-native joined the Merchant Marines in 1943.

"The year I graduated from high school,” he remembered.

He worked on a ship transporting Army soldiers during World War II – and took part in the invasion of Normandy on his 19th birthday.

"It was terrible,” Merlin said. “To see what the others were going through. That is what was bad. Terrible."

After the war, Merlin returned to Pepin – not thinking he was eligible for recognition.

"I didn't think they were giving medals for the Merchant Marines at that time."

But, he was. And decades later, five medals – including an honorable service button – finally made it into his hands.

"Best day of my life,” said Merlin’s son, Larry. “Its unbelievable all the work they went through to get to this day."

Thanks to a little help from Representative Ron Kind.

"We did the foot work,” he said.

While he was in town, Rep. Kind also captured Merlin’s war stories on tape. They’ll be achieved in the Library of Congress as part of the Veterans History Project.

"Time is of the essence,” Rep. Kind said. “We're losing, specifically the WWII and Korea generation, about 1,700 veterans every single day in the U.S."

"It’s gonna' be there forever, you know, so that's really going to be something really neat,” added Larry.

Lasting memories – and a final salute – 60 years in the making.

"It’s quite a feeling, I tell ya',” Merlin said. “Its hard to explain. It really hits the heart."

To learn more about the Veterans History Project at the Library of Congress, click on “links” at the top of your screen.