SPRINGFIELD, Mo. — This week, a Springfield veteran who served his country during World War II, celebrated his 100th birthday. He is being honored for a century of service, work and community impact. Miller is a World War II Navy veteran who turned 100 on Jan. 25, 2026.
Born and raised in Springfield, Miller served in the United States Navy during World War II, stationed aboard the USS Star during operations at Iwo Jima and Okinawa. His military service took him across the world, including assignments in China, Korea, Japan, the Philippines and Russia during one of the most significant conflicts in world history.
After returning home from the war, Miller continued serving his community through decades of work. He worked as a mechanic for the Frisco Railroad, where he helped relocate the historic Engine 4524 to Grant Beach Park. He later joined City Utilities of Springfield, working first as a bus driver and eventually at the Fulbright Pump Station until retiring in 1987.
Retirement opened a new chapter for Miller and his wife, Mary. The couple traveled the country in an RV and later spent winters in Texas…