MSG (r) Tony Williams, commander of SAL Squadron 37, Department of the Philippines, took part in the 2025 Veterans Celebration Week activities in Caddo Parish, La. This week consisted of a proclamation-signing for a Green Light campaign in which homes display a green light to honor veterans, an honors ceremony, recognizing veterans from across the community, and the largest veterans parade within the State of Louisiana.

Corporal (r) Sam Mattox, a World War II veteran, was among the most distinguished guests in attendance. At 106, Mattox is recognized as the oldest WWII veteran in the State of Louisiana and remains active in this community. He took part in both the signing and parade year.

CPL Sam Mattox entered World War II on Dec. 12, 1942, where he served in the 642nd Company Army Field Organization and worked with ammunition as a combat soldier. Mr. Sam served in Australia, the Philippines, New Guinea and Japan for 26 months before being discharged on Dec. 6, 1945, with the rank of corporal. In fact, he was in Japan at the time the Japanese surrendered and even witnessed the p-resident of Japan hold up the white flag.