On this Veterans Day, several American heroes who are enjoying their golden years live, reminisce. and celebrate together.
The Volunteers of America Sierra Manor Apartments in Reno is where over 180 seniors call home. Through the halls of the common area, it's hard not to feel a certain sense of pride.
"I'm a veteran too," said Barbara Pratt, Vietnam veteran to her friend Jesse Blackburn Jr. who is also a Vietnam veteran. "Thank you," he replies.
There's also lots of celebration.
"Happy Veterans Day to you! Cheers!" said Pratt raising her cup of coffee.
Many of the residents at Sierra Manor are veterans.
"I'm a third generation Army and I'm the first woman on my father's side of the family to serve," said Pratt.
Blackburn lives just a few floors from Barbara and his story has a little twist. In the early 1950s, he was in the Army during the Korean War. After he got out, he quickly found himself back in. He spent some time in college and worked a civilian job, but returned to the military.
"The following week I was back in the Air Force," said Blackburn.
He served in the next American conflict shortly after Korea, the Vietnam War, but this time in the United States Air Force. Retiring in 1972, his time in the service brings back a certain type of nostalgia.
"I had a good experience in it and after a while I kind of missed it."
Just across the hall is a buddy of Jesse's: Charles Munyer. He's a Marine Corps vet. This week he did something special, a very freedom he fought for.
"First time that I voted was this year," said Munyer.
On this Veterans Day at Sierra Manor, there are veterans from many different wars and many different military branches now taking it easy, living day-to-day, but there still is a little soldier in all of them.
"It is making aware that the military has helped fight for our freedoms throughout our history," said Pratt.
"It hurts sometimes, some of the wounds that we've gotten and have to live with," explained Munyer.
All of them never surrendering their love of country.
