As promised, today this blog celebrates the anniversary of the “real” end of World War II. It was September 2, 1945, that representatives from the Empire of Japan formally surrendered to Allied commanders aboard the USS Missouri. (Yes, I realize there were at least two more peace treaties after this one, and word on the street is there are still Japanese soldiers out there today unconvinced that the war is actually over, but this date is good enough for me.)

Tomorrow evening I have the honor and privilege to entertain a group of World War II veterans at a ceremony commemorating their achievements and the celebrating the end of the war. Their day will start at Arlington National Cemetery, then move down the road to a Crystal City hotel where I’ll be doing an evening of World War II era songs with good old-fashioned American pride and exuberance.

Remember when we used to root for our country to win? These guys do, and not knowing how many more of their anniversary parties I’ll get to do, I’ll make this one count.