Bob Caron smiled as he reminisced about the days serving in the U.S. Air Force during the Korean War. The Rochelle resident was honored earlier this week at the VFW Post 3878 for over six decades as an active member.
Post commander Bill Bumgarner presented Caron with a 65-year VFW member pin and patch, although he officially joined in 1951 — 67 years ago. Recognitions are presented in five-year increments.
It was a proud moment for Bumgarner as well as Caron.
“It felt pretty good to receive it,” Caron said. “I have many good memories…I was sent to England. I enjoyed it there, saw the history and had a chance to tour Europe for two weeks — Paris, Italy, Rome. I was blessed by Pope Pius XII.”

Caron served as a budget and fiscal accountant in the Air Force from 1950 to 1954.
He also worked with Caron International for nearly 40 years, starting there while still in high school during the summer months as a doffer.
Caron was promoted through the ranks as a scheduler then warehouse supervisor.
He recently celebrated his 60th wedding anniversary with his wife, Shirley, and attended his 70th Rochelle Township High School reunion with the Class of 1948.