Submitted by: Levi Johnson Jr

Category: Stories

This man deserves recognition for his accomplishments. Tom Carson was presented an American Legion award and certificate for his support and continuous membership of the American Legion Post 102 of Stilwell Oklahoma and the veterans of this area for over 70 years. American Legion members, Levi Johnson Jr, and C. Dean Jackson had the privilege and honor of presenting this longtime membership award to Mr. Carson. Tom Carson was born on March 6, 1921 in Adair County, Oklahoma. He was a graduate of
Stilwell High School and attended Oklahoma A&M college. He is a member of the Oklahoma State University Business Hall of Fame. He graduated early spring of 1942 in order to enter the military with the R.O.T.C members. He entered the fledgling Army Air Corps and served in the 7th Air Force throughout the Pacific Campaign. He continued to be in the Air Force Reserves for many years until his retirement as Lt. Colonel. He also served as the Air Force Academy liaison officer fro the area. Carson was on active duty from June 2,1942 until March 10,1946. He was in the Sr Force Reserve from 1946 until 1987. After spending 3 years in the Pacific, he returned to Stilwell and entered the business world. He was a partner in strawberry patches, cattle, and a new and used car dealership. He was associated with the Bank of Commerce, Stilwell Foods, Stilwell Treasurer of the First Christian Church and other civic organizations for several years. He is the only living Charter member of the Stilwell Kiwanis Club. He has also been a member of Flint Masonic Lodge of Stilwell for 74 years. In December of 1946 he married Edna Mae Ford and they had 3 children: Rita, Jim and Drew. Mr Carson established the Tom J and Edna M Carson Foundation to assist local and area groups with funding for special programs and needs. Carson feels that being part of the military that won World War 2 was one of his greatest achievements. I would just like to say thank you Mr Carson for your service.

About the author:

Levi Johnson Jr is a member of the Stilwell American Legion Post 102. He had the honor of being their commander for 3 years. He knows Mr Carson and his family personally.