L ouise Gilliland Wilson, 99 of Vero Beach passed away on Nov 16, 2019.

She was born April 25, 1920, in Altoona, Pennsylvania to the late Joseph Gilliland and Dorothy Williams Gilliland.

After graduating from Altoona High School in 1938, she received her nurse's training at Philadelphia General Hospital graduating in 1941 as a registered nurse.

She then enlisted in the US Army in 1942 and served as First Lieutenant in the Army Nurse Corp, 77th Evacuation Hospital in the European Theater, Tunisia, Normandy, Northern France, Rhineland, Ardennes, Central Europe, Algeria and the Northern Africa Theater.

She was awarded the European African and Middle Eastern Campaign Ribbon and was honorably discharged in December 1945.

After the war, she continued her nursing career. She resided in Florida for many years and was married to Kirkland Wilson who pre-deceased her.

Louise and Kirkland enjoyed close relationships with the many friends they acquired.

Her cousin, Tom, and dear friends Myra and Marge kept close contact throughout her life providing much assistance and companionship.

Louise often spoke with fond memories of her military experience and had kept in touch with her fellow nurses through several reunions.

Her contribution to the military has been honored at many functions. She was a sincere advocate of women's increasing role in the military and was one of the first group of women enrolled in the American Legion and the Women in Military Service for America (WIMSA) Memorial Foundation.

She had always felt that women should have more opportunities in education, employment, and politics, applauding those who achieved recognition in non-traditional roles.

Louise's knowledge, encouragement, and friendship will be missed by all who knew her. Though strong-willed and determined, she was also compassionate a nd thankful for the life she had and the help and care she received from her friends and neighbors.

A remarkable person throughout her life, she now rests in peace in God's care and eternal life.

She will be interred in Arlington National Cemetery with full military honors at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory may be made to

The Women's Memorial Fund

200 North Glebe Road Suite 400

Arlington Virginia 22203

703-892-2606

womensmemorial.org