World War II Veteran Celebrates His 100th Birthday with Over 2,000 Cards from the Amarillo Community and Beyond
AUSTIN, Texas— Today, Texas Land Commissioner and Veterans Land Board (VLB) Chairwoman Dawn Buckingham, M.D., is thrilled to share that the Amarillo community, Texans across the state, and people around the country sent over 2,000 cards to U.S. Army and World War II Veteran Mr. Wiley Tow at the Ussery-Roan Texas State Veterans Home (TSVH), for his 100th birthday celebration on Friday, August 14, 2026.
"There is no greater act of service than stepping up to fight for your country. Mr. Tow is part of our Greatest Generation, who fought in defense of freedom, not only for America but for people across the world," said Commissioner Buckingham. "It is an honor for the Texas Veterans Land Board to help him celebrate his 100th birthday with more than 2,000 cards from across our state and nation through our 100 for 100 Program. I thank everyone who sent Mr. Tow a card or attended his celebration in Amarillo. Together, we can ensure Texas remains a place where Veterans are never left behind, and their sacrifices are never forgotten."
Mr. Wiley Tow and VLB On-Site Representative Ameka Mobley at his 100th Birthday Celebration
In addition to receiving 2,000 cards on his centennial celebration, Mr. Tow enjoyed a party thrown in his honor at the Ussery-Roan TSVH on Friday. There were 75 guests at his birthday, including a representative from Representative Caroline Fairly's Office, Dr. Rodney Gonzales, Director of Amarillo VA Health Care System, and Gary Smith from the Texas Veterans Commission (TVC).
His family members also attended the event and shared memories from their many years spent together. This incredible event not only celebrated one of our nation's heroes but also helped strengthen the bond between Texans and the Veterans who served our communities.
Mr. Wiley Tow speaks to a young gentleman at his 100th Birthday Celebration
On November 4, 1944, Mr. Tow was inducted into the United States Army and faithfully served his country during World War II. He participated in the Central European Campaign and was awarded the Campaign Ribbon with one Bronze Star, the Good Conduct Medal, two Overseas Service Bars, the Army of Occupation Ribbon (Germany), and the Victory Ribbon.
As a Technical Sergeant, Mr. Tow led a team of mechanics, and his remarkable mechanical ability and leadership skills were instrumental in keeping military vehicles operational during the war. Following his military service, Mr. Tow married the love of his life, Florence Bonds. Together, they built a loving family, raising three sons and a daughter. His devotion to his family was matched only by his dedication to his work.
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Dr. Dawn Buckingham made history in 2022, winning a statewide election to become Texas's first female Land Commissioner. As Land Commissioner, Dr. Dawn Buckingham is committed to helping Texans after a disaster, supporting Texas energy, ensuring that every child in Texas receives a high-quality public education, serving Texas Veterans, and securing the border to keep our communities safe.
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