101-Year-Old WWII Veteran Becomes Published Songwriter

On March 5, 2024, just one day before his 101st birthday, Irving Locker, a World War II veteran, achieved a remarkable milestone by becoming a published songwriter. His song, titled “If Freedom Was Free,” was released by Big Machine Label Group in collaboration with CreatiVets, a Nashville-based nonprofit dedicated to helping veterans process their experiences through the arts.

A Journey from D-Day to Songwriting

Locker, who landed at Utah Beach during the D-Day invasion, shared that the opportunity to write and publish a song was an “unbelievable” thrill. The song serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by countless individuals for freedom. The lyrics include the powerful chorus: “If freedom was free, there wouldn’t be a mountain of metal and men under Normandy.” This message reflects Locker’s long-standing commitment to educating others about the true cost of freedom, which he has conveyed in lectures across various platforms, including the White House.

“I have to talk about things like that,” Locker stated. “I got nothing to gain. But people have to know and appreciate the fact that they’re living because of men who died. It comes from the heart, not the lips.”

For this project, Locker collaborated with Texas singer-songwriter Bart Crow and the duo Johnny and Heidi Bulford, who also performed on the track. This partnership not only allowed Locker to share his message but also to connect with younger artists, bridging generations through music.

Life Beyond the Battlefield

Now residing in The Villages, Florida, Locker continues to enjoy life to the fullest. He has been married to his wife, Bernice, for 77 years, and the couple still enjoys dancing together, often showcasing their skills in jitterbug and cha-cha. “You should see me on the floor even now,” he remarked, emphasizing his gratitude for life and the opportunities he still has.

Reflecting on his experiences during the war, Locker noted how they reshaped his understanding of faith and gratitude. “To be very honest with you, I was never conscious of God until the war,” he explained. “But I came so close to dying that I learned how to thank God and use the simple phrase ‘But for the grace of God go I.’”

Locker’s story serves as a testament to resilience and the enduring spirit of veterans. Through his music, he not only honors the memory of those who served before him but also inspires future generations to appreciate the freedoms they enjoy today.

With “If Freedom Was Free,” Locker has not only fulfilled a lifelong dream but has also contributed to a greater dialogue about the meaning of freedom and sacrifice. His journey exemplifies how creativity can flourish at any age and how art can serve as a powerful tool for healing and expression.