Obama: World War II generation 'saved the world'

President Obama devoted a special radio address Friday to the 70th anniversary of victory in Europe during World War II, hailing the veterans of that conflict as the saviors of civilization.

"This was the generation that literally saved the world -- that ended the war and laid a foundation for peace," Obama said.

The spirit of the World War II veterans lives on in today's military, Obama said, service members who defend the freedoms their parents and grandparents fought for seven decades ago.

"As Americans grateful for their service, let's truly honor them -- on this day and every day -- with the gratitude they have earned and the respect they deserve," Obama said.