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Our Veterans, Our Stories
Our Veterans, Our Stories is a podcast dedicated to preserving the voices of Hancock County’s veterans. Through first-hand accounts, pivotal moments, and personal anecdotes, we bring you some of the untold stories shared within the Hancock County Veterans Service Office. Whether you’re a history buff, a veteran, or simply someone who values the sacrifices made for our country, this podcast offers a unique, unfiltered look at the experiences of those who served. Tune in to hear the powerful narratives of courage, resilience, and brotherhood—because every veteran’s story deserves to be heard.
Our Veterans, Our Stories
Laurence 'Sliv' Lauer: A Marine’s Fight at Iwo Jima & the Legacy of WWII
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🎙 Episode 3:
At 98 years old, Laurence "Sliv" Lauer carries with him the memories of one of World War II’s most pivotal battles—Iwo Jima. Drafted into the United States Marine Corps at just 18, Sliv found himself in the third or fourth wave of Marines landing on the beaches of Iwo Jima, where he witnessed firsthand the horrors of war.
In this episode, Sliv recounts:
🔹 The grueling battle of Iwo Jima & witnessing the iconic flag raising
🔹 The moment he was wounded in action—with a bullet passing through his address book, money, and canteen before hitting him
🔹 Life after war—his transition home, a career as a mechanic, and his love for golf
🔹 His message to younger generations about service, sacrifice, and the future of American democracy
Sliv’s story is a living piece of history—a reminder of the courage and resilience of the Greatest Generation. Listen now and help keep these stories alive.