William Pekrul is a World War II veteran from Milwaukee, Wisconsin, who has been honored for his service and became publicly prominent again when he spoke at the 2024 Republican National Convention (RNC).
He enlisted the day after turning 18 (in December 1943) and served in key WWII operations, including the Normandy Invasion (D-Day) and the Battle of the Bulge. Over his lifetime, Pekrul has received multiple honors, including the Bronze Star and awards from the French government.
Before his resurgence on the national stage, Pekrul was known locally as a respected veteran and community figure in Milwaukee. As of 2024, he is in his late 90s and continues to reflect publicly on patriotism, sacrifice, and civic duty.
Military Service & Honors
Pekrul’s wartime service is a defining part of his life story and public respect. Some highlights:
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He volunteered soon after turning 18 in December 1943 and was deployed in the European theater.
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He was involved in major WWII campaigns, including D-Day (Normandy landings) and the Battle of the Bulge, two of the war’s most critical and dangerous operations.
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For his bravery and service, he earned at least two Bronze Stars and also a Silver Star, which is one of the highest decorations for gallantry in combat.
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In addition to American recognition, he was also honored by France with a Meritorious Award for his contribution to their liberation.
His wartime experiences, passing through war zones, confronting danger, and witnessing the destruction of Europe, deeply shaped his worldview — and later public remarks.
The 2024 RNC Speech & Public Return
In July 2024, at age 98, William Pekrul was invited to address the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee. His appearance drew attention not only for his age and veteran status, but for the force of his message and symbolism.
In his remarks, Pekrul stated that “America is still worth fighting for,” urging national unity and reminding Americans of sacrifice and service. He emphasized that, even at his age, he would still heed the call to serve if needed.
Video from the event (available via C-SPAN, YouTube, and other platforms) shows Pekrul delivering his speech with dignity, receiving applause, and becoming a media focal point.
This moment reintroduced him to a national audience, elevating him from local veteran to a symbol of intergenerational patriotism and commitment.
Personal Life, Values & Later Years
Beyond his military and public roles, Pekrul’s life story and personal traits provide insight into what motivates him.
Family & Roots
Pekrul is married to his wife Rosemary — as of 2024, married for 76 years — and they have eleven children. His long marriage and extended family are often cited in coverage as testament to his stability, devotion, and character.
Reflections & Patriotism
Even in advanced age, Pekrul remains vocal about his love for the country. In interviews, he reflected on how coming home after the war was deeply meaningful — “I kissed the ground” — and maintained that freedom is worth defending.
He also expressed typical veteran burdens, admitting to nightmares and memory of war trauma, yet affirming purpose in surviving and helping shape future generations.
Modern Engagement & Visibility
His RNC speech gave him renewed media presence, interviews, and news profiles. Local journalism in Milwaukee has covered his life (e.g. Spectrum News) and the national news picked up his story as a human-interest feature.
In public remarks, he says he still maintains good health, pride, and mental clarity, even at nearly a century.
Legacy, Symbolism & Public Reception
William Pekrul’s revival on the national stage has carried weight beyond a single speech. His story resonates on multiple levels.
Veteran Recognition & Inspiring Age
His longevity and ability to address a major political convention at 98 give him symbolic value — a living link to WWII, a reminder of aging as strength, and evidence that service transcends years.
Bridge Between Past & Present
Pekrul bridges the “Greatest Generation” and contemporary politics. His story reminds younger Americans of the sacrifices made in mid-20th century wars and grounds modern debates in lived memory.
Mixed Political Context
While invited by a political party, Pekrul in interviews has said he is not strictly partisan: “I vote for the person.” Yet his platform at the RNC inevitably tied him to political messaging. Some coverage notes this tension — veteran voice being enlisted in modern political theater.
Community Pride
In Milwaukee and beyond, Pekrul is a source of local pride. News coverage, community events, and veteran organizations have celebrated him. His speech and life narrative have been covered in local outlets like Spectrum News.
His story likely will endure in veteran circles, local history, and as an example when narrating generational service.
Challenges & Open Questions
While much is known, there are also unclear or delicate aspects to Pekrul’s public profile.
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Health & Longevity: At nearly 100, maintaining health, mobility, and memory is a challenge. While he publicly affirms vitality, the demands of travel or public speaking may strain.
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Political association vs personal identity: Being spotlighted at a partisan political event can lead to questions about how his message is framed and co-opted.
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Balancing personal privacy and public narrative: Media tend to gloss over less glamorous or private aspects — injuries, struggles, or losses — to preserve narrative.
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Historical accuracy & memory: As with many WWII veterans, recollections may sometimes conflict or fade, making external records, archives, and verification important.
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What comes next: Will Pekrul continue public engagement? Will his story be preserved in local museums, veteran memorials, or oral histories?
These uncertainties do not diminish his achievements, but remind us that every public narrative has unseen contours.
