WWII Veterans at Arbor Oaks in Bryan are honored with special ceremony
WWII Veterans at Arbor Oaks in Bryan are honored with special ceremony
Seven deserving World War II veterans who live at Arbor Oaks at Crestview were recently given a unique and heartfelt honor. A local quilting club, led by friend of Arbor Oaks Marjean Neve, recently joined forces with a National Organization called Quilts of Valor. The group began in 2003 with a goal to present handmade quilts as a symbol of healing and support to those who bravely served their country. The quilts are often pieced together by one group, then passed to another group who does the quilting. Collectively, each completed quilt represents the talent of multiple volunteers, each contributing hours and hours of hard work to show their gratitude to these brave veterans.
CB (Buddy) McGown joined the Army in 1943 at 18 years old. He was in the 20th Armored Division, 23rd Calvary Reconnaissance Squadron. He was stationed in France, Italy, Germany, and California.
John Aterbury joined the Army on March of 1943, enlisting in the 71st Army Infantry. He returned home in 1946 after serving in Germany, France and Austria. He remained in the reserves until 1951, rising in rank to Captain.
Martin Vavra joined the Navy in 1944 at the age of 19. As a Seaman 1st class, he escaped many hazards aboard the USS Taos Victory as they sailed to India with 500lb bombs and medical supplies above deck without escorts.
Ralph Jones enlisted in the Army Air Corps in 1944 at the age of 17. He rose to the rank of Corporal with duties as a B-29 Turret Mechanic Gunner along with clerical duties while stationed in the Philippine Islands.
General John Miller enlisted in the Marine Corps in 1943 and was stationed all over the world throughout his time of service. During his impressive career, he collected the following medals: Bronze Star Medal with gold star, Purple Heart Medal with two gold stars, Legion of Merit with Combat “V” and gold star, Presidential Unit Citation with two bronze stars, American Campaign Medal, United Nations Service Medal, Navy Occupation Service Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, Joint Service Commendation Medal, Navy Commendation Medal, Meritorious Unit Commendation, Asiatic Pacific Campaign Medal with two bronze stars, WWII Victory Medal, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, National Defense Service Medal with one bronze star, Gallantry Cross with Palm, Korean Service Medal with four bronze stars, and the Republic of Vietnam Meritorious Unit Citation.
Bill Johnston enlisted in the Navy in 1942. He served in the United States Naval Construction 118th Battalion and was stationed in England. His primary assignment during the conflict was to build ship unloading facilities. Johnston went on to be honorably discharged in 1946.
Doyle Moore joined the Army Air Corps in 1943 at the age of 19. Moore was stationed in multiple locations in the Untied States as well as England. He was in charge of all base communication for squadrons who transported Airborne Divisions on various key missions.
