May 2021 – Eddie Nep Wilson
U.S. Army 1944-1946

Eddie Nep Wilson was born on Dec. 4, 1925, in Brighton, Tennessee, to Jim and Nannie Strain Wilson. One of ten children, six boys, and four girls, he attended Saddler School until the third grade and then helped the family on their farm.

On his 18th birthday, he was directed to register for military service, and within the month, found himself embarked on his military career. He entered active service on April 10, 1944, at Ft. Benning, Ga., and trained as a Longshoreman. As part of the US Army’s Transportation Corps, he was responsible for ensuring that thousands of tons of military supplies were packed, unloaded, and delivered to the front lines. Loading and off-loading ships for the war effort while attached to the 114th Port Company, he saw duty at Pearl Harbor, Okinawa, California, and Seattle, Washington. By the time he was honorable discharged on May 14, 1946, at Camp Chaffee, Ark., he had risen in rank to Technical Specialist 5th grade.

For exemplary service during his military career, he was awarded the Army Good Conduct Medal, the American Campaign Medal, the Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal, and the World War II Victory Medal.

Upon his return home, he married the former Miss Doreatha Mae Stower on Feb. 19, 1947, at Crittenden, Ark., and together they raised two children, Eddie Wilson, and Yvette Wilson Tally. Eddie and his family spent time in Michigan where he worked for General Motors for 14 years before coming back to his roots and family in Tipton County.

Eddie and his beloved Doretha had just celebrated their 48th anniversary when she passed in February 1995. He found love once again, marrying Mrs. Willie B. Bernard, and they have celebrated 24 wonderful years together. Eddie and his wife are members of St. Luke Missionary Baptist Church.

Although military service was not on his bucket list, his dedicated service to his country has been an example of inspiration and honor which has inspired his son, numerous nephews, nieces, and grandchildren to follow in his footsteps, ensuring his legacy is not forgotten.

He was nominated for Veteran of the Month by his beloved nephew, Rufus Wilson, himself, a veteran of the U.S. Army.