HOUSTON – Napoleon Gilmore marked his 102nd birthday Friday, September 2, with a celebration at the Richard A. Anderson Texas State Veterans Home in Houston, surrounded by those honoring his remarkable life and military service.
Gilmore served in the U.S. Army during World War II after entering active duty in 1943. His work as a telephone and telegraph lineman took him overseas to both the European and Asiatic-Pacific theaters, where he supported military operations during campaigns in Rhineland and Central Europe.
During nearly three years in uniform, Gilmore rose to the rank of Technician Fourth Grade and earned numerous decorations, including campaign medals for service in Europe and the Pacific, the Good Conduct Medal and the World War II Victory Medal. He was also recognized as a qualified rifle sharpshooter.
Gilmore completed his service with an honorable discharge at Camp Fannin in Texas in February 1946. Eight decades later, his birthday offered an opportunity to reflect on the sacrifices of his generation and the enduring impact of his service.
Officials and community members joined in recognizing Gilmore’s milestone. The celebration took place at the veterans home at 14041 Cottingham Street in Houston.
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