A Century of Service: Honoring Carl Wier, American Hero

This gathering was not just marked by colorful balloons and cake—this was a tribute, a deeply moving respect to a man whose century-long journey embodies duty, resilience, and boundless love: Mr. Carl Wier, who had just turned 100 years old days earlier, on October 7.

Born in an era world apart from our own, Carl Wier entered life in 1925. As the years passed, he showed an extraordinary sense of duty. At just 17 years old, Carl answered the nation’s call by enlisting in the United States Marine Corps during the challenging times of World War II. From 1942 to 1945, he stood with honor, unyielding courage, and a steadfast commitment to his country. Yet, Carl’s service did not end with the war.

Carl continued to don the uniform for nearly four decades. He served with the Air National Guard from 1950 to 1979 and the Active-Duty Guard and Reserves until 1986. In total, he dedicated a noble 39 years of his life to safeguarding the freedoms we cherish.

Even after his military service, Carl remained active. His days were spent in his garage, immersed in hobby projects, crafting and mending his large and loving family. Though widowed, Carl was never truly alone. Surrounded by the legacy he built—seven children, numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and even great-great-grandchildren—he continues to dwell at home, supported by family and caregivers, staying deeply connected to the great outdoors and those he loves.

During the heartfelt celebration, Dr. Bryan Prahl, the Tomah VA Medical Center Associate Director, presented Carl with a framed, hand-signed letter of appreciation and a special VA challenge coin from the Secretary of Veterans Affairs. “It was a profound honor to present Mr. Wier with this recognition on behalf of the Department of Veterans Affairs,” Dr. Prahl remarked. “His life of service—spanning nearly four decades in uniform—is a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by our Veterans."

The Tomah VA Medical Center, through the Center for Development and Civic Engagement (CDCE), honored Carl as part of the VA’s Centenarian Recognition Program. This national initiative celebrates Veterans who have reached the extraordinary milestone of 100 years of age. Launched in November 2020 by then-Secretary of Veterans Affairs Robert Wilkie, and proudly continued by Secretaries Denis McDonough and Douglas Collins, the program has since coordinated over 1,000 centenarian recognitions across the country, including special acknowledgments for Veterans in their late 90s. Carl Wier is the 28th centenarian recognized by the Tomah VA since the facility began participating in the program in July 2024.

The celebration's emotional weight was heightened by the presence of Carl’s family, friends, and representatives from the VA, all gathered to express their profound gratitude for his lifetime of service. As the parish hall echoed with applause and the sweet aroma of cake filled the air, one undeniable truth became clear: Carl Wier is far more than a centenarian. He stands as a living symbol of American strength, sacrifice, and unyielding spirit.