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HONORING WWII VETERAN JOHN T. ‘JACK’ MORAN Every year, the National Memorial Day Concert on PBS pairs veterans with celebrity guest stars to honor their service. This year includes a
spotlight on World War II veteran John T. “Jack” Moran, 98, who served in the 87th Infantry Division as a staff sergeant and fought in the Battle of the Bulge, one of the war’s bloodiest
battles. Of the 42 soldiers in his platoon, only one other made it home. Asked about his war experiences, Moran says, “We were just young boys. Cannon fodder. Surviving means a lot of luck.
When going into battle, you are scared to death. Your adrenaline races to the roof.” After the war, Moran earned a bachelor’s degree and married “the nicest lady in the world.” They had four
children, now in their 60s and 70s, two grandchildren and three great grandchildren. He worked in real estate for 40 years and continues to advise up-and-coming real estate agents. He is
traveling to the Washington concert with his daughter and says, “I have an ego and am excited about being honored and looking forward to seeing the Smithsonian.” His secret to a long life?
“I eat a banana and a grapefruit a day. And drink a tall Manhattan at night while watching the news. And I keep active.”
