The United Black Veterans Society of Virginia a Advocacy, humanitarian, Civil rights organization, each year honors local veterans for their service to our country and community. This year, the oldest member 99-year-old Joseph E. Brown a World War II Era US Navy veteran, who will be 100 on September 5, is given special recognition!
Joseph E. Brown is a World War II Era US Navy veteran. During his military career he served as Head Chef and also received special medals for risking his life to save other comrades aboard the LSM Flotilla Server Flagship during October 1941.
His ship was struck by enemy diver bombers, resulting in an explosion and fire aboard his ship. He bravely rescued several of his shipmates before being forced to abandon the burning ship!
Brown also received several local honors from Roanoke’s current Mayor, The Honorable Sherman Lea, Sr.; former Mayor, The Honorable David Bowers, and from Roanoke City Council. He has also been recognized and honored by, The Honorable Senator John Edwards, Senator Mark Warner, Tim Kaine, Delegate Sam Rasoul and former Congressman Bob Goodlatte. Brown has also received numerous awards and recognitions from The United Black Veteran’s Society and currently serves as chairman of The Senior Life Honorary Council for members in the 90-100 age range. He also pledged on the first line of Sigma Phi Tau, the Greek component of UBVS. Deacon Brown is a member of Roanoke’s Greater Mount Zion Baptist Church, where he served honorably as Chairman of the Deacon Board most of his life until recent years. Although his wife Pauline is deceased, he is surrounded by a loving family, son, Carroll; daughter-in-law Jackie, 3 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren.
He is considered a hometown hero by his church family, relatives, friends, and the community at large. The members of The United Black Veterans Society of Virginia and Sigma Phi Tau salute, and appreciate his meritorious and honorable service to our country and overseas.
