WWII Hero Reflects on Declining Patriotism, PTSD, and the State of America

World War II veteran Ronald "Rondo" Scharfe, who fought in the Battle of Iwo Jima at 16, expresses his concern about the current state of the country, calling some young generations "lazy" and criticizing excessive "Hollywood" in Washington.

Marking the 80th anniversary of D-Day, WWII veteran Ronald "Rondo" Scharfe shared his perspective on the state of America, expressing a palpable sense of estrangement and concern.

Scharfe, who famously enlisted at age 16 by falsifying his age, sat down with Fox News anchor Martha MacCallum in Normandy, France, to reflect on his experiences during the pivotal war. However, his reflections extended beyond the battlefield, encompassing his disillusionment with the current state of his beloved country.

"I feel like a foreigner in my own country lots of times," Scharfe said, his voice heavy with emotion. "I just hope we can pull out of this, there's too much Hollywood going on in Washington all the time."

Scharfe lamented what he perceived as a decline in patriotism and a preoccupation with entertainment rather than substance. He remarked that it was unlikely that many 16-year-olds today would have the same willingness to risk their lives for their country.

"It was a different generation," he said. "And I think some of the ones they got now are a little lazy, and I think they've got to show more pride in their country than they do."

Scharfe's patriotism stemmed from the sacrifices he witnessed firsthand. He recalled the moment he realized the true nature of war when he saw a fellow soldier cut in half. "I think I was talking to myself saying, 'What the hell am I doing here? Get me through this,'" he said.

Despite the horrors he endured, Scharfe carries a deep appreciation for the gift of life. "I'm lucky to be alive," he said. "A lot of the guys weren't as lucky as I was, and I appreciate every day of it."

Scharfe also candidly discussed his lifelong battle with PTSD, a condition that has left an enduring mark on his psyche. "The only ones you get along with or that can understand you, is if you're a combat vet," he said. "It's all history. I'm glad I'm here. I feel bad about not having some of my buddies with me."

Scharfe's poignant reflections serve as a reminder of the sacrifices made by those who fought for our freedom and the importance of preserving the values and unity that have defined the American spirit.