Opelika’s Orrin “Boody” Brown

Auburn will host its annual veterans event on Nov. 11— co-hosted by the city of Auburn and the Auburn Veterans Committee. The ceremony is held at the Auburn Veterans Memorial Monument at the corner of Ross Street and Glenn Avenue. If it rains, find the program indoors at 141 N. Ross St.

Story By Wil Crews Photos By Robert Noles and Contributed By Orrin Brown

Orrin “Boody” Brown IV is Opelika’s centenarian veteran. Brown turned 102 on April 4 and celebrated with a party, inviting family and friends to his place of residence to join in on the occasion.

Born and raised in Opelika, Brown attended the Alabama Polytechnic Institute (what is now Auburn University), where he pursued a degree in aeronautical administration.

Following his graduation in summer 1941, Brown applied and was accepted into the U.S. Army’s Aviation Cadet Program. With his bombardment group, “The Carpetbaggers,” Brown served in France and England in support of the Allied forces of World War II. Brown has been recognized for his service multiple times, including receiving a congressional medal from the government of Norway in 2019.

Photos to the right are from Brown’s birthday party, Brown when he was honored at an Auburn University football game, at the Norwegian ceremony in 2019 and during his military service.