‘We all did it together’

WWII vet honored at surprise gathering

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Francis Norman Saran thought he was going on a quick trip for fish and chips with his children Friday afternoon.

It was actually a ploy to bring him to the Johnston Senior Center, where Mayor Joseph Polisena and U.S. Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse were waiting to present the World War II veteran with certificates of recognition.

Saran, 96, was drafted into the Army during World War II at the age of 19. By this time, he was married and already had two children. He served in the 69th and 272nd Infantry Division, known as the “Battle Axe Regiment,” fighting in Normandy and at the Battle of the Bulge.

After four years, he returned to Rhode Island. He would go on to work in carpentry, own a gas station, and later work at the Johnston Public Works Department.

Denise Saran, his granddaughter, said that during his time in the Army, he manned a bazooka, carrying the heavy weapon through battles.

“He won’t talk about it at all,” she said. “All he will say is that war is hell.”

As Saran walked into the senior center, he was welcomed by Whitehouse, Polisena, as well as family and friends. His sons Richard, Arthur and Robert Saran and daughter Dorita Saran Downey were in attendance.

“As we pause to salute America’s veterans this week, it is an honor to meet a brave member of the Greatest Generation who put his life on the line for our country. On behalf of all Rhode Islanders, I thank Mr. Saran for his service,” Whitehouse said.

Saran was presented with certificates of recognition from both Polisena and Whitehouse, who also presented a certificate on behalf of his colleague, U.S. Jack Reed, who is also a veteran.

In a statement, Reed said: “We owe Mr. Saran and his fellow World War II veterans a debt of gratitude that can never be fully repaid. We are forever grateful for their service and sacrifice.”

“It wasn’t only me, it was everybody, even those who stayed at home. We all did it together,” Saran said.

“You guys were the real heroes, on and off the field,” Polisena said. “Your work was very important.”

Saran said it was a “different time” back then, and he was appreciative of being recognized.

“This is beautiful,” he said.

“We are grateful for your service,” Whitehouse said. “Your family really loves you. They put a lot of work into this.”

After the surprise, brief ceremony, Saran left with his children to get a well-deserved dinner of fish and chips.

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