98-year-old vet reflections upon serving on the USS South Dakota

SIOUX FALLS, SD (KELO) — People gathered in Sioux Falls Saturday to honor the sailors who served aboard the USS South Dakota during World War II.

A California man, believed to be the last surviving crew member, was part in the Day of Honor ceremony.

This visitor to the USS South Dakota Battleship Memorial Museum has a personal connection to the ship.

“You didn’t think too much about it. You just thought about doing your job,” Gee said.

98-year-old served as a radar operator on the South Dakota, one of the most decorated battleships of World War II.

“And we’d pick up a flight of Japanese planes a couple hundred miles out,” Gee said.

Gee was a witness to history when the South Dakota was anchored near the USS Missouri. He was there as the Japanese surrendered, ending World War II 79 years ago.

“I could watch what was going on. I couldn’t hear what was going on,” Gee said.

Gee feels a certain comfort level about sharing war stories at the Battleship Memorial, something that eludes him when he’s home in California.

“He’s a quiet man. But he talks more here than he does at home,” wife Marion Gee said.

Gee is in Sioux Falls for Saturday’s USS South Dakota Day of Honor. He’s likely the battleship’s last surviving crew member. His thoughts are constantly with his fellow sailors who never made it home.

“And that’s one of the things that bothers me yet. Seeing the burials at sea and even though you didn’t know the person, know that it’s probably somebody’s son, maybe somebody’s father,” Gee said.

Gee says he’s humbled by the warm reception he receives from the community each time he visits Sioux Falls. And as members of the Greatest Generation fade away with each passing day, those closest to them are grateful for every moment together.

“He’s a terrific person to live with… I was very fortunate,” Marion Gee said.

The public is invited to attend Saturday’s Day of Honor at the Battleship Memorial. Activities begin at 10 a.m. with a performance by the Sioux Falls Municipal Band Quintet. The ceremony starts at 11 a.m.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to SiouxlandProud | Sioux City, IA | News, Weather, and Sports.