Sharing war-time stories: Students, veterans work together to tell real-life history lesson

SOUTH MILWAUKEE (WITI) -- It's a project that has lasted months, but its impact will last a lifetime. A group of Manitowoc high school students paired with Milwaukee area World War II veterans to help share their war-time stories. It's a project hashed out between teenage history buffs and South Milwaukee's 8th Air Force Historical Society.

"I heard many stories of our gentlemen who are now ages 90 to 96. And the interesting thing was, what we found is many of them were just starting to share their stories at the age of 90 plus," said Cindy Drehmel of the 8th Air Force History Society.

"I have always considered myself to be a student, including today. So I am always interested in speaking with other students," said Ralph Windler, 29th Infantry.

Students and veterans were paired together -- and the research began. The younger ones created a storyline for each veteran. 70 plus years separated the students from the veterans -- and on Wednesday, April 8th, those students offered up their final presentation.

"For them to have a chance to shake our hands or get a little high five, I think that really means something to them," said Henry Ratenski, 20th Air Force.

Educators say the project went so well, the Air Force Historical Society plans to pair even more Milwaukee veterans with students.