Mike Catrambone

Town: North Adams

Age: 78

Birth date: January 15, 1924

Birthplace: North Adams

Occupation: Retired. Veteran of U.S. Navy, Armed Guard; ski instructor; Bushika Sand and Gravel.

How I would describe myself: A veteran-activist.

Current volunteerism, board memberships, etc.: American Legion Post 125; very active in veterans’ burials; VFW Dalton 9566; Mass. AMVETS at-large member; Armed Guard Assocation.; Veterans of Overseas of America (VOSA); Sons of the American Legion (SAL 125).

Family: Two boys, seven sisters.

Education: Left high school in 1942 for U.S. Navy service in World War II; later received diploma in 2001 from Drury High School.

Personal hero/role model: Everyone in the armed forces.

Why is this person a hero/role model to you?: Today, to volunteer to fight when there are chances of a conflict, it takes a little thinking, but it’s the right thing to do.

Personal achievement(s) of which you are most proud: Fighting in World War II and becoming a professional certified ski instructor. Going to the cemetery to bury a veteran of the military. It makes the family feel good that someone who fought in the war with them is there. And that someone my age can do this -- I plan to do it as long as I can.

Personal quote/trademark expression: “’On guard, Armed Guard.’ That’s what we used to say in the outfit.”

The best advice you can give someone: For a young fellow, if your country really needs you, that’s the time to act. And think seriously about what branch of the service you want to go into.

Favorite books read: “Crusade in Europe,” by Dwight D. Eisenhower. Stars & Stripes. And anything by Ernie Pyle.

Favorite TV show: History Channel. Anyone who doesn’t watch that has got to be nuts.

Pet peeve: The Red Sox bullpen, but I’m an Atlanta Braves fan.

Hobbies/Interests: Baseball (Braves) and football (Patriots).