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November 3, 2021Veterans Day Nov. 11
MCLOUD – A trio of veterans from this small parish 20 miles east of Oklahoma City recently discussed their military service, their love of Christ and their devotion to family. They also share a love of country and consider Saint Vincent de Paul Catholic Church a second home.
The oldest of the trio is Robert Jones who regularly attends Mass at age 88. Jones finished his service at Tinker Air Force Base after serving in the U.S. Navy and U.S. Air Force. He and his wife were married for 66 years until his wife passed away last year from COVID-19. During his military service he converted to Catholicism.
“I honestly believe that military service will enhance your faith in God. I also believe service should be mandatory for every young American to help them appreciate what we have in this country,” Jones said.
He served his country during the Korean War and Vietnam War.
Ralph Wilsack served in the U.S. Army from 1965 to 1967. He was trained at Fort Bragg and fought in Vietnam. He has been married 45 years and has two grown sons.
“We didn’t see many chaplains in Vietnam, especially in the boonies, and I fell away,” Wilsack said.
Wilsack now is involved with the parish, and also with the Saint Vincent de Paul Society, which helps people in need.
He said for an immature 18-year-old, spending a year or two in service to others (whether the military, Peace Corps or charitable work) would be a great benefit.
Steve Luba served in the U.S. Army from 1968 to 1970 and fought in Vietnam. He has been married for 50 years.
He said he had, “the harrowing experience of spending almost all my time in a place in Vietnam called ‘Landing Zone Grant.’ It was not a great place to be. I was there from the beginning to the end. I had the opportunity to go to Mass six times during my time there.”
Luba was wounded and received a Purple Heart and a Bronze Star for bravery. He remains active in the church community.
Other veterans at the church from different conflicts include Donald Johnson, James Walker and Delores Martinez.
“There are many military veterans who have come home and show no scars from their service, but have seen and endured much. Some aspects of their service will never go away,” Wilsack said.
“They deserve the greatest amount of respect because there is so much they have endured that they will never tell you about, but will always be at the back of their mind.”
Charles Albert is a freelance writer for the Sooner Catholic.
Photos: (top) Robert Jones; (below) Steve and Sheila Luba
