By By Lisa Tindell
news editor
When James H. Lambeth was drafted into the Air Force at the age of 19, he had no idea where the World War II event would lead. From a cornfield in California and a train depot in New York to the shores of Japan and Korea, Lambeth had a chance to see the world,
Lambeth said the trip was an ordeal, but the trip would change his life forever.
Although Lambeth never dreamed the war would turn into a love story, he knew he had met the woman he would spend his life with in South Hampton, England.
Leaving South Hampton and his sweetheart wasn’t a happy time for Lambeth. As soon as an opportunity came along, he made his way back to Pat to propose marriage.
Lambeth said he had a son that was nearly a year old when he saw him.
The couple found themselves stationed at Eglin Air Force Base in Ft. Walton Beach, Fla., upon returning to the states.
Although Lambeth’s time as a World War II soldier was over when the cease-fire was called, he didn’t see an end to his military career.
Lambeth served for 18 months in Korea working in Japan for a period of time.
Lambeth came home from England spending time in Greenville, S.C., ending up in Minot, N.D.
Lambeth finally received his retirement confirmation in May 1963.
Although serving in wartime wasn’t a pleasant experience, Lambeth said the opportunity to meet and marry his wife made it worthwhile.
Lambeth said the couple, along with their children, loved to travel and being in the service gave them that chance.
Lambeth now spends his time at home in Brewton remembering the life he shared with his wife of nearly 59 years.