Buffalo Ledger

Congressman Brian Higgins (NY-26) celebrated the service of local veterans Charles B. Walker, Sr. and the late-Ira Roberts, Jr. during a special presentation on Sunday, July 9, 2023.

“Each of these men served with honor and distinction decades ago and chose Buffalo as their home,” said Congressman Higgins. “Our country and community are better for their faithful service. It is a privilege to recognize Private First Class Walker and Sergeant First Class Roberts on behalf of a grateful nation.”

Charles Bruce Walker, Sr. was born on June 30, 1936, and spent his early life in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He began his service with the United States Army on September 3, 1959, assigned to the 81st Transportation Company and specializing in vehicle maintenance. Private First Class Walker served his country for nearly two years before his Honorable Discharge on August 26, 1961. 

Upon his return to civilian life, PFC Walker continued to serve, this time as a United States Postal Service employee. He married the love of his life, Sylvia Bronner and together they raised a family. After his retirement from the Post Office, Charles and Sylvia relocated to Buffalo to support the pastoral efforts of their son, Bishop Dr. T. Anthony Bronner, Founder and Senior Pastor at ELIM Christian Fellowship. For two decades Charles served in roles within the church supporting facility operations and congregation activities. 

For his service in the Army over 60 years ago, Private First Class Walker was presented a Marksman Badge with Rifle Bar, signifying expertise in weapon qualifications; as well as a National Defense Service Medal, awarded to members of the U.S. Armed Forces who served during periods of armed conflict or national emergency.

Ira Russel Roberts was born in 1935 in Cincinnati, Ohio. In 1954, at the age of 18, Roberts enlisted in the United States Navy and was assigned to the USS Mineral County. He later transferred to the U.S. Army, serving in the National Guard and later the Reserves.  During his service, Ira rose through the ranks, ultimately promoted to Sergeant First Class and assuming the role of Army instructor. In his military records, his superiors noted his strong leadership skills, self-motivation, and teaching excellence. 

Following active service, he relocated to Buffalo, raised a family, and worked at TRICO until his retirement. He continued his military service in the Army Reserves for nearly four decades, until 1992. An active leader at ELIM Christian Fellowship, Ira was recognized as “Father of the Church” prior to his passing in early 2023, at the age of 87.

Thelma Roberts, Ira’s wife of 34-years and Queen Mother of the Church, accepted the following medals on behalf of her late-husband SFC Roberts: the Army Reserve Components Achievement Medal with Three Bronze Oak Leaf Clusters, awarded for exemplary behavior, efficiency, and fidelity while serving; and the Armed Forces Reserve Medal with a Silver Hourglass Device, which recognizes outstanding service performed by members of Reserve units.

Congressman Higgins recognized the military service of both veterans during a service at ELIM Christian Fellowship, presenting the military medals each earned as well as flags flown over the United States Capitol.

Original source can be found here.