Thelma Williams, a 103-year-old World War II veteran from Katy, was honored by the American Legion at its annual three-day state convention, held last month in Austin. The convention featured policy discussions and breakout sessions for 453 posts that comprise the Department of Texas, representing 53,319 veteran members.

Bret Watson, state commander, said he met Williams last year at the Wreaths Across America ceremony in Katy. He said she was representative of the what has been called the Greatest Generation, which served during the World War II years.

“I was told that she was planning to attend the convention in Austin, and I was delighted to see that she was able to attend,” Watson said. “It was my honor to present her and James Watson (Watson’s 25-year-old son) with the oldest and youngest delegate on the floor. It just shows you the range of ages of veterans that support our great organization.”

Peter Batura, Katy American Legion Post 164 commander, said Williams exemplified the best characteristics of the U.S. military—duty, honor and fidelity.

“She represents an era when selfless acts were commonplace, not the exception,” Batura said. “Reaching the milestone age of 103, Thelma remains active and is an encouragement to virtually everyone she comes in contact. Engaging conversation and great stories are your reward for spending time with her.”

Williams served the U.S. Army Corps from 1943-47, serving in Europe and Japan.

“I was very fortunate to serve in the occupation forces in Germany and Japan and in all, I had a very good experience,” Williams said. “I would do it all over again in a heartbeat if I were many, many years younger. At first, I joined the American Legion for the dinners that they had, but then later I came to enjoy the camaraderie and worked a lot with the American Legion Auxiliary.”

The American Legion, founded in 1919 in Indianapolis, is a national service organization comprised of wartime veterans. It focuses on veterans and rehabilitation, Americanism, national security, and children and youth. It has worked for many legislative changes to help solve veteran issues to meet their needs and concerns (most recently the PACT Act), the founding of other non-profits in support of its mission and addressing the security of the nation as seen by veterans.

The American Legion Post 164 meets every third Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. for a social mixer, then holds its business meeting at 7:30 p.m. at 22125 Kingsland Blvd. Meetings are open to current members and new prospective members.

For a schedule of American Legion Post 164 activities, visit the website LegionPost164KatyTX.org.