World War II veteran Ernest Thompson recently became an internet sensation after a video of him went viral.
For many years, Thompson made a point to travel to the Pacific Battleship Center, the current home of the USS Iowa. During World War II, Thompson was stationed aboard the USS Missouri, which considered the USS Iowa a “sister” ship.
Due to some recent health problems, Thompson has had to slow down his daily routines, including his trips to see the ship.
Now 98 years old, Thompson is stuck at home and unable to stand or walk for long periods of time.
So Chief Selects from the Fleet Anti-Submarine Warfare Training Center came to him. They visited Thompson at his home and performed a rendition of “Anchors Aweigh” in the street.
After they were done, each sailor greeted Thompson and thanked him for his service.
“When they found out that my grandfather was unable to visit the (USS Iowa) lately due to health reasons, they decided to take it to him,” Thompson’s grandson Jonathan Williams wrote on Facebook.
“The video shows the culmination of the planning and the amazing efforts of all involved. Neighbors came out of their houses to witness a once in a lifetime experience. My grandfather told me that it was one of the best days of his life! I am humbled by the efforts these young men and women to do this for my grandfather.”
>> See a Facebook post by Williams here
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