‘Let’s be kind and generous’: WWII veteran reflects on going viral after singing ‘God Bless America’ at Brewers game
By TJ Dysart
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MILWAUKEE (WISN) — Sverre Vinje, a 102-year-old World War II veteran, sang “God Bless America” at last week’s Brewers game on the 25th anniversary of the September 11 attacks, fulfilling a dream he has had for decades.
During an exclusive interview, Vinje shared his lifelong connection to music.
“I can remember I was always the lead tenor in choirs and things like that,” Vinje said. “That’s been the story of my life.”
His love for music began at age 7, when he competed in a singing competition.
“I won the contest at age 7, and I won first prize, which was a quarter,” Vinje said. However, he added with a laugh, “Somebody stole my quarter!”
Vinje’s passion for music continued during his service in the Navy in 1943, when he was just 19 years old.
“I was ready to go after Pearl Harbor,” he said.
Even in the midst of enemy planes and ships, music provided him with an escape.
“We had a little group. I used to sing along with the group,” Vinje said.
One of the songs Vinje sang during those days was “God Bless America,” which he performed again 83 years later at American Family Field in front of more than 41,000 Brewers fans. Reflecting on the experience, Vinje said, “It was wonderful. All the people I had talked to were so friendly. 150 people or more came up and shook my hand. I was there for them.”
Vinje explained why the song holds special meaning for him.
“It expresses our way of life that we should be living,” he said. “Let’s be kind and generous to each other. We don’t need gun butts; we need to shake hands. That’s what we need.”
After 102 years, a war, and a lifetime of music, Vinje remains steadfast in his belief in “friendship and care.”
Although Vinje lives in Rockford, Illinois, he has long dreamed of singing at a major ballpark. The Brewers were the first team to take him up on the offer, and his family shared that the team wants him back for the upcoming postseason.
When Vinje sings “God Bless America,” it’s clear that people hear more than just a song—they hear a lifetime of resilience, kindness, and hope.
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