PARIS — The Maine Veterans’ Home has named John C. Child, Navy 3rd Class Petty Officer, as Veteran of the Month for May. Child was born on May 12, 1933, in West Peru. He grew up with three sisters and two brothers and graduated from Dixfield High School.
Child worked at the Stowell MacGregor mill for a couple of summers while he was in high school, and after high school he continued to work there as a supervisor until he enlisted in the Navy in January 1952.
Child was on medical duty where he took care of the wounded and assisted the doctors, going where ever he was needed. He served on the USS O’Brian and another hospital ship. “It was not the front lines, but close,” he said.
Child was honorably discharged in January 1956 and received the Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal and the Navy Occupational Service Medal.
After the service he signed up for the Navy Reserves, remaining for 12 years, while working at Diamond International where he made ice cream sticks, medical applicators and other wooden products. Child retired from Diamond International after working there 42 years.
Child was married for 50 years and has 13 children, six boys and seven girls. He also has 27 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren. After their last child left home, he and his wife bought a motor home and traveled for six years. Hawaii was the only place they didn’t go.
Child was a sports nut in his younger years, playing baseball and football in high school. He enjoys NASCAR racing and while he was traveling, he met Dale Earnhart.
Child enjoys reading sports books and going outside. He entered the Maine Veterans’ Home in June 2015 and resides on the Residential Care Unit.
John C. Child
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