WWII Veterans Reunite 82 Years After Serving Together

Willard Smith and Robert Miller fought side-by-side in the Philippines during World War II and reconnected decades later at a Chicago-area health care facility.

Feb. 3, 2026 at 2:55pm

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Two World War II veterans, Willard Smith and Robert Miller, have reunited 82 years after serving together in the Pacific Theater. The pair, who were teenagers when they fought in the Battle of Luzon in the Philippines, recently crossed paths at a health care facility in suburban Chicago. Now centenarians, Smith and Miller reflected on their long lives and military service.

Why it matters

As the number of surviving WWII veterans continues to dwindle, their stories and experiences become increasingly precious. This reunion highlights the enduring bonds forged during the war and the importance of preserving the legacies of those who served.

The details

Smith and Miller, now 100 and 99 years old respectively, first met as young soldiers fighting in the Battle of Luzon in the Philippines during World War II. After the war, they went their separate ways, both becoming teachers - Smith an art teacher and Miller a science teacher. Decades later, the two veterans reconnected at Tabor Hills, a health care facility in suburban Chicago.

  • Willard Smith and Robert Miller first met and served together during the Battle of Luzon in the Philippines in World War II.
  • The two veterans recently reunited at Tabor Hills, a health care facility in suburban Chicago.

The players

Willard Smith

A 100-year-old World War II veteran who fought in the Battle of Luzon in the Philippines and later became an art teacher.

Robert Miller

A 99-year-old World War II veteran who fought alongside Willard Smith in the Battle of Luzon and later became a science teacher.

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What they’re saying

“They said you look too young to fight this war. And it was probably true.”

— Robert Miller (1011now.com)

“Now, I'm 100 years old. Oh, man. Didn't think I'd make it that far.”

— Willard Smith (1011now.com)

“We had a good run, I think, for a couple of soldiers.”

— Willard Smith (1011now.com)

The takeaway

This reunion of two WWII veterans who fought side-by-side decades ago serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring bonds and legacies of those who served during the war. As their numbers dwindle, preserving and sharing the stories of these veterans becomes increasingly important.