WWII veteran celebrates a centennial milestone

A Southwest Louisiana Veterans Home (SWLVH) resident reached a milestone this week — his 100th birthday.

WWII veteran Amadia Broussard, who was awarded the National Order of the Legion of Honor from Consul General of France in May, turned 100 years old Monday morning and a reception was held in his honor by the veterans home staff.

Pfc. Broussard completed his basic training at Camp Adair, where he became trained on the Browning automatic rifle. In August 1944, he departed the United States for his military service in Europe. He arrived in September to prepare for combat duty on the mainland. Broussard served in several battles and campaigns as a member of Company G, 415th Infantry Regiment including Northern France, Rhineland and Central.

Dori Gilder, Unit Three Supervisor at SWLVH, told Broussard’s family it is an to care for Broussard.

“I absolutely love and adore him. He never gives us any problems. We love his kisses and his jitterbug dances,” Gilder said. “Thank you for giving us the opportunity to take of him.”

Norman Broussard said his dad worked hard in auto mechanics in Lake Arthur after leaving the military.

Norman said his dad was a good provider to his children and a person who knew how to enjoy life.

“Every Sunday we would go get in the car and go to Pappy’s in Lake Arthur for ice cream,” he said. “Also back in the 50s, it was very common for musicians to have jam sessions on their porch, and he’d take us to go see them.”

Norman said throughout his life, his father was most proud of his military service.

“That was his moment of glory,” he said.

Even though he was injured during the Invasion of Holland and suffered nerve pain, he stayed healthy and active for most of his life.

“He was physical all of his life and he didn’t let it bother him. It amazes me the things he could do with the handicap in his arm. He could lift a transmission off a school bus onto his back, no problem,” Norman said. “It really never affected him aside from some nerve problems.”

His daughter Faye Adams also described her father as a hard worker.

“He worked every day of his life. Up until he was 96 years old, he was mowing his own grass with a push-mower. He was into good living and didn’t drink or smoke,” Adams said.

He was also a stern parent who showed his love through actions.

“He showed it in the things he did with us. He made sure we were safe and healthy. He made sure we didn’t run around with the wrong crowds,” she said. “He was strict but in that time and era, you had to be strict with your kids. He was the head of the household and, between him and my mother, we stayed on the straight and narrow.”

Adams said though it was his pride, her didn’t talk about his military career much.

“He tended to hold it inside but you could tell he was proud of his country and was proud to have served,” she said.