Today, I salute WWII Veteran Charles Elliot. Charlie served in occupied Japan, first as a Private First Class (PFC) Rifleman and later as a PFC Cook in the officers’ mess at the 128th Station Hospital. His numerous decorations include the Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Ribbon with one Bronze Star, the Philippine Liberation Campaign Ribbon with one Bronze Star, the Good Conduct Medal, the Army Occupational Medal, the Japan Victory Ribbon, and two Overseas Service Bars. Charles had one request for his 100th birthday: he wanted 100 birthday cards. Well, the internet, ‘interneted’, and friends and strangers came through in a big way. Charlie received more than 5,000 cards for his birthday from near and far. A party was held in his honor, where he was presented with a flag that was flown over the U.S. Capitol, letters from U.S. Senator Ted Cruz, Congressman Ronny Jackson, and a proclamation from the Texas House of Representatives. Happy Birthday, Charles, and THANK YOU for your service.
