Joyful family gathering to celebrate the 100th birthday of B.L. Craighead with fishing stories.
B.L. Craighead, a World War II veteran, celebrated his 100th birthday in San Antonio surrounded by family and friends. The heartwarming event included fishing tales and reflections on his adventurous life, showcasing the strong bonds created through shared experiences. Gathering stories of joyful fishing trips and memories of his late wife, the celebration highlighted a legacy of love, strength, and resilience, reminding all of the importance of togetherness.
What a remarkable milestone for the city of San Antonio! This past weekend, B.L. Craighead, the beloved World War II veteran, celebrated his 100th birthday surrounded by family and friends, creating memories that will last a lifetime. The joy in the air was contagious, as everyone came together to honor this incredible man and reminisce about the good ol’ times.
B.L. Craighead, who made his name as a former pilot, is also a passionate fishing enthusiast. His family took the opportunity to share stories about their treasured fishing trips, particularly to the stunning Laguna Madre. These excursions have not only created lasting bonds but also carried on a cherished tradition of fishing within the Craighead family. It’s clear that fishing isn’t just a pastime for B.L., but a heartfelt way of connecting with his loved ones.
During the birthday celebration, family members shared warm tales, including an adorable story about how B.L. met his late wife while waiting for a bus many decades ago. It was a sweet touch that added a sprinkle of nostalgia to the day. With so much love showered upon him by everyone present, B.L. felt nothing but happiness for having his family beside him on this special occasion.
Born and raised in San Antonio, B.L. has had a full and colorful life that began with his graduation from Fox Tech High School in 1941. At just 17, he joined the newly established Army Air Forces, training as a pilot at Sheppard Field. While he served as a flight instructor and flew across various airfields in Texas, he considers himself quite fortunate. He never had to engage in combat missions, believing that his path didn’t lead him to take a life during those challenging times.
Even with a diagnosis of dementia, B.L. remains incredibly lucid when it comes to discussing his fishing adventures. With joy sparkling in his eyes, he recalls those summer days at Medina Lake from his childhood, where he’d spend hours fishing with his parents. The thrill of reeling in a fish that weighed over 40 pounds still brings smiles to his face, showing how those early memories shaped the man he has become.
B.L.’s passion for fishing continues to thrive, even as he celebrated his 100th birthday. His granddaughter, Julie, orchestrated an unforgettable fishing trip for him with the nonprofit group Combat Marine Outdoors. Located just 20 miles southeast of San Antonio, Calaveras Lake became the backdrop for this incredible outing, allowing B.L. to fulfill his longtime wish to cast a line once more.
During this fishing trip, B.L. joined fellow veterans, some of whom were in hospice care, to share stories, laughter, and of course, catch some fish. With the assistance of retired Army Sgt. 1st Class Javi Zuniga, these veterans enjoyed an incredible day on the water. B.L. found delight in catching two fish, but as he later expressed, it was the overall experience and camaraderie that brought him the greatest joy.
The Craighead family extends beyond B.L. with three children: David, Don, and Peggy. After the war, B.L. chose the path of home-building, following in his father’s footsteps, and made considerable contributions to the community throughout his career.
As he reflected on his adventurous life, filled with ups and downs, he shared a wish to relive some of those amazing experiences. B.L. has kept a special connection with Randolph AFB, the place where he first trained as a pilot, and expressed a desire to visit again someday.
With heartwarming stories, fishing rods in hand, and a loving family surrounding him, B.L. Craighead’s birthday celebration was not just a party but a beautiful reminder of a life well-lived. Here’s to more fishing adventures and joyful memories—happy 100th birthday, B.L. Craighead!
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