Community honors Ohio's oldest WWII veteran at memorial service

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) -- The Oldest World War II veteran in Ohio was laid to rest Friday morning.

Moses Eldridge died last week at the age of 108. He was believed to be the oldest World War II veteran in Ohio. Today, community members came together as he was laid to rest.  

The Shiloh Baptist Church was filled with family, friends, and community leaders saying their final goodbyes, reflecting on the life he led and the legacy he leaves behind.     

“He was always there, kind of hovering over us to make sure that we were okay,” said Michele Goodwin Moses Eldridge's granddaughter. But I am happy that my grandfather is back with my grandmother and with his siblings and his parents. So, it's a little bittersweet.” 

Eldridge was celebrated through song, a poem reading, and the U.S. Army honor guard presenting the United States flag to his family. In 1943, Eldridge was drafted into the army, where he worked as a water purifier – later receiving a medal for his work to reroute stormwater that was on track to wash away a hospital in New Guinea. But for his grandson Everett Bingham, it's his kindness he’ll remember most.   

“Just being genuine and sincere sometimes gets lost among society, you know, just being genuine with your thoughts and intentions,” Bingham said. “And, you know, I really can't recall a time in my life when I ever felt like my grandpa wasn't sincere.” 

Many speakers throughout the service noted him as a pillar of the community and in the church. Whether it was singing in the senior choir, working at Sunday school services, or other volunteer efforts. His Daughter, Barbara Bingham, shared that she knows he will be missed.   

“That was great to have him, but now that he's gone,” Bingham said.  “But to see people giving him his flowers, you know, while he was alive and celebrating him and knowing about him and seeing about his greatness, thank you.” 

Before Eldridge passed away, he was set to receive an award at the National Veterans' Memorial and Museum. His family reflected on what they believe his lasting legacy will be.  

“His legacy would have been family, his legacy would have been community, his legacy would have been service,” Goodwin said. “It is making sure that people who are closest to you feel love every day.”