One North Texas veteran is also celebrating a huge milestone this Veterans Day. He’s turning a century old.
Col. Glen Francis of Garland was born Nov. 11, 1920. He’s lived through 19 presidents, served in the Air Force through World War II, the Korean and Vietnam Wars, a 41-year career in the military. This past weekend (Saturday, Nov. 7), the community in Garland honored the veteran with extra special birthday wishes. Dozens of people decorated their vehicles and took part in a drive-by birthday parade in his honor. Mr. Francis and his wife are regulars at the Main Street Café in downtown Garland. They eat dinner there every Saturday night. So the owner of the restaurant put out a call on social media, asking folks to take part in the parade and to send the birthday boy birthday cards. And boy did the community come through.
So far, they’ve collected more than 100 birthday cards. And they’re still coming. Mr. Francis says he may be a little slower these days but doesn’t feel a day over 90.
By the way, he still drives! He said he hasn’t been in an accident in years but admits he was recently pulled over for going a little too fast. He was taking his wife to the doctor and was running late. The officer gave him a warning. J
Service Record, October 1939 – November 1980
Oct 1940 –Private E2
Apr 1941 –Corporal E3
July 1941 –Sergeant E4
July 1942 –Staff Sgt E5
Sep 1942 –2nd Lt O1
Feb 1944 –Pilot Wings
Mar 1949 –1st Lt. O2
Feb 1955 –Captain O3
Feb 1962 –Major O4
Feb 1968 –Lt. Colonel O5
Apr 1968 –Sr. Pilot Wings
Apr 1971 –Cmd Wings
Aug 1979 –Colonel
Here’s a link to video of Saul Garza’s visit with Mr. Francis. https://we.tl/t-lnVvk0m6Xs
Information provided by Saul Garza, city of Garland.