Olley, 80, was a sailor on a landing craft that took part in the Battle of Leyte Gulf, which is the largest naval battle in modern history. The battle in the Philippines essentially ended Japan's organized naval force.
Olley served as a quartermaster and signalman, and that meant he had to climb the ship's tower, despite sniper fire, to send signals to other U.S. ships. Olley says he remembers the gunfire whizzing past him while stationed in the tower. At one point, he put his own life in danger, taking the tower duty in place of a friend.
Olley lives in Manteno with his wife, Jane. They have been married for 66 years.
ABC7 salutes Olley for his military service to our country.
