Veteran (retired) Lt. Col. Louis Frazier Martin’s front lawn was packed with well-wishers to help him celebrate the centenarian’s 104 birthday.
On July 3, Martin’s surprise party kicked off with a car caravan assembly spearheaded by the University of Maryland Eastern Shore National Alumni Association. After that, the procession paraded past Martin’s Roosevelt Avenue residence near Virginia State University in Chesterfield County.
Sheila Martin Brown, proud being Martin’s daughter, shared some words about her father. “I have been inspired by his example of service to the community,” said Brown who resides with her dad. “He’s a wonderfully strong family man. He’s just always been a believer.” In addition, Brown stated that her dad has raised more money from individuals locally than she did while serving as a councilmember in Atlanta.
Moreover, “This is a special, special occasion,” said friend Starrie Jordan of Ettrick. “He’s been a model citizen for all of us in this community to follow. If I keep doing what he’s doing, maybe I can make it to 104.”
According to Jordan, Martin walks every morning. “He has a lot of determination,” added Jordan. “I hope I inherited whatever Dad is made out of,” said Brown.
“He has meant so much to our community here as you can see by the turnout.” said neighbor and friend Anna Bradley who invited The Progress-Index to attend Martin’s celebration. “There are numerous groups here to honor him.”
The event was attended by his loving daughter, family, friends, Westminster Presbyterian Church (Petersburg) members, neighbors, Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity members, University of Maryland Eastern Shore (formerly Princess Anne College) Alumni, and others.
Betty Berry who has known Martin since 1968 expressed how Martin and his late wife Mariah were like family and always good to her. (continue reading)
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