Woodstock’s Hearthstone was the site of a ceremony honoring 92-year old World War II Veteran Bob Gibson as Illinois’ Veteran of the Month.
The award was important enough to draw the attendance of Illinois Department of Veterans Affairs’ Director Erica Borggren, who is from McHenry.
The Color Guard of the Woodstock VFW Post 5040 brought forth the flags and those assembled gave the Pledge of Allegiance.
Then Director Borggren ead a proclamation from Governor Pat Quinn.
State Rep. Jack Franks, who nominated Gibson for the honor, explained how Gibson assisted in his office and, during a year when the Governor keep the legislature in session just prior to petition filing time, Gibson got Franks enough signatures to get on the ballot.
Gibson also performs daily duties at the Woodstock VFW Post, whose Honor Guard presented the Colors at the ceremony.
He also drives Veterans to Veterans hospital appointments and works multiple shifts on Poppy Day.
After effusively praising Gibson, Franks gave Republican Congressman Joe Walsh, who was in town for the opening of his new Woodstock office.
The Franks resolution had mentioned that Gibson was a Democratic Party Precinct Committeeman.
“What!” Walsh said at the start of his comments. “I thought you said you were a Republican Precinct Committeeman.”
That drew a big laugh from the crowed and an exclamation of astonishment from Gibson’s son, who was sitting beside him.
I’m trying to locate an old relative of mine. I’m thinking the Bob Gibson of your town might be the one. If you have any information on him that you are willing to share please contact me
Sarah