I think the great depression had something to do with it. It toughened us and also our enemies.
Also our morality and sense of national patriotism was far far stronger than now. I can recall my Father mentioning that all their officers were fine men.
I agree and I came to realize my parents didn’t really talk much about it, nor toss it back at me when I complained about something. Their generation and the one before it just went out and got it done. Then went on about their business working and raising a family.