Members of a Sunflower State VFW Post on Jan. 23 gave their respects to a World War II veteran on his 100th birthday.
VFW Post 11499 in Basehor, Kansas, held a birthday celebration for Wilbur Grisham’s century of living. Grisham, a retired Army tech sergeant, is a longtime Life member of the VFW Post and still attend Post meetings, said VFW Post 11499 Commander David Babin.
(From left to right) Army World War II veteran Wilbur Grisham on Jan. 23 receives a proclamation from Basehor, Kan., Mayor Dick Drennon that declares Jan. 23, 2023, as “Clyde Wilbur Grisham Day” in the town. Member of Post VFW Post 11499 in Basehor celebrated Grisham 100th birthday that day. Photo courtesy of David Babin.“He’s respected in the community,” Babin said. “Not only is he a World War II veteran, but he was also a postal carrier in town and drove a school bus. As a fireman, he was instrumental in getting the first firetruck in eastern Kansas, too. He’s such a humble man.”
Grisham was at Pearl Harbor during the Japanese attack on Dec. 7, 1941. According to Babin, Grisham cared for the wounded from the attack.
Babin also said Grisham has donated thousands of dollars to the Post to buy life memberships for veterans he thought deserved it.
“Because of his age, he doesn't help much with setting up events, but he is very active and participates in everything we do.
In recognition of the 100-year milestone, the mayor of Basehor, Dick Drennon, declared Jan. 23, 2023, as “Clyde Wilbur Grisham Day” in the town.