Editor's note: This is part of a series of interviews with World War II veterans.The articles will continue in each day's edition until May 28, prior to the World War II Memorial Dedication and Recognition Day, May 29. "Sixty-two years ago, the United States was bombed at Pearl Harbor by the Japanese," said Paul Grossnickle, 79, setting the climate for his eventual service as a World War II fighter pilot for the U.S.Navy."That's what really started the Second World War in the Pacific.The Japanese didn't realize they had awakened a sleeping giant.In none of the preceding wars were we attacked, so everyone wanted to do their part for the war effort. "Whoever was able-bodied and of the right age went into the military.Those who didn't, stayed here and did all their work with the war effort.
TERESA SMITH, Times-Union Staff Writer- | July 28, 2016