GRAND ISLAND, Neb. - Nebraska is recognizing the efforts of a member of the Greatest Generation for his actions 80 years ago that helped secure America's freedom.

96-year-old Bob Hinrichs of Grand Island received a surprise medal of recognition on Tuesday for his service in World War II.

He served the Army in the Transportation Corps in Anchorage, Alaska before eventually returning to central Nebraska.

Hinrichs now resides at Tabitha at Prairie Commons in Grand Island and said that he was not prepared to be the guest of honor.

"I had no idea. I refused to go to Lincoln but what an honor. I'm overwhelmed, I don't deserve it, but thank you," said Hinrichs.

The event coincides with the Nebraska Department of Veterans Affairs launching a new initiative to recognize World War II veterans with the upcoming 80th anniversary of the end of the war.

Hinrichs' family nominated him along with brother-in-law Ray Arnold.

Grand Island Mayor Roger Steele gave Hinrichs the medal on behalf of Governor Jim Pillen. Steele said it's vitally important to never forget the sacrifices veterans like Henricks made in order to secure our country's freedom.

"Grand Island honors its veterans, and that's the way it should be. The freedoms we enjoy today were given to us by the veterans," said Steele.

There were once over 16 million U.S. World War II veterans and now there are around 65,000 living today, according to U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs statistics, making their stories even more valuable for the next generation.