Lackey Antone - WWII Veteran Interview

WWII Veteran, Antone Lackey, was interviewed on August 8, 2021, in Norman, Oklahoma. PFC Lackey served with the 1st Cavalry, 8th Regiment in the U.S. Army during World War II. PFC Lackey was initially with the horse cavalry until moving to the Military Police. PFC Lackey served in Japan and the Philippines. PFC Lackey crossed paths with General Eisenhower and General MacArthur as an MP and as part of their security team. ‪@MakingHistoryProject‬
Summary:
Early Life and Family:
Anton Lackey was born on February 16, 1927, in Jay, Oklahoma.
He grew up in a farming family with four sisters and one brother, being the eldest child.
He worked on the family farm, which had 40 acres and a few cows.
Military Enlistment and Training:
Lackey enlisted in the Army at age 17 in February 1944, following a family tradition.
He received basic training at Fort Riley, Kansas, and was assigned to the 8th Regiment of the 1st Cavalry Division. His training included infantry tactics on horseback and later military police training.
Military Service:
Lackey served as a military policeman, known for his sharpshooting and no-nonsense approach to handling AWOL soldiers. He was stationed in various locations, including Japan and the Philippines, during and after WWII. He often went on missions to retrieve AWOL soldiers, sometimes using unconventional methods like posing as AWOL himself.
Bodyguard Duties:
Lackey served as a bodyguard to notable generals, including Dwight D. Eisenhower and Douglas MacArthur. He shared memorable moments with them, such as discussing political views with Eisenhower and maintaining discipline under MacArthur.
Post-War Life and Advice:
After WWII, Lackey remained in the military and reserves until the mid-1980s.
He emphasized the importance of staying out of other people's business and supporting the country's leaders. Lackey expressed readiness to be called back to service if needed and remained proud of his military career.