World War II veteran says US will continue to be great following election

BOYNTON BEACH, Fla. – Veterans are being honored across the country Friday for their service, and Local 10 News spoke with one man who served as a pilot in World War II.

Lt. Donald Henningsen, 93, was 19 years old when he enlisted in the Army Air Corp's aviation cadet program in 1942.

"(It was a) pretty tough course," he said.

Henningsen, who is from a small town in Iowa, received his wings after completing the program.

"Being in the service is good for everyone -- for both men and women, but being at war is not a great thing," Henningsen said.

A replica of the C-47 Henningsen flew is on display in his home.

From 1944 to 1947, he flew troops in and out of harm's way in the South Pacific.    

Henningsen survived to see the war end and returned home to Iowa, where he married his sweetheart Betty and was honorably discharged from service.     

Seventy years of marriage, two children, four grandchildren and six great-grandchildren later, the former snowbirds now live in Boynton Beach.

Henningsen served during one of the most divisive times the world has seen and had plenty to say about this week’s election, which was one of the most divisive elections America has seen.

"(I'm) surprised like most people with the final results, but the people of America spoke," Henningsen said. "I think and hope everyone will try to get along and work together. This is a great country and it will continue to be a great country."