WWII Vet, 96, Honored With Key To City In Worcester

WORCESTER (CBS) -- Jean Flanagan was 22 when America was attacked on December 7, 1941. She later joined the Navy, serving on Ford Island in Pearl Harbor.

On Monday, exactly 74 years after that attack, Flanagan was honored in recognition for her service, receiving a key to the city of Worcester from Mayor Joseph Petty.

Flanagan was in Connecticut when Pearl Harbor was attacked. She and her twin sister joined the Navy in 1943, while her brother joined the Marines. She served at Pearl Harbor until the end of the war, later moving to Worcester in 1953.

Flanagan said she chose the Navy because that's the branch her father had served in. Arriving at Pearl Harbor two years after the attack, she said those stationed there did not dwell on the events of that day, as there was a war on.

"You didn't hear a lot of talk about it," said Flanagan. "You'd hear them say that it was a disgrace what was done, and all this and that, but hey, war is war."

She said she can't believe it's been so many years since her time in the Navy.

"I don't believe I'm 96 either, but I am," said Flanagan.

In:
• Worcester