Weonon, Illinois – It has been over 80 years that retired US Air Force Colonel Arnold Gabriel, Virginia of Virginia took an oath to protect their country during World War II, where they watched the match.
The 100 -year -old Gabriel, who also served in the US Army, was once a conductor of the US Air Force band, and under his leadership, it became internationally famous.
In 1992, one of his greatest fans, Bruce Moss – Vheeton, Conductor in Illinois, invited Gabriel to become a guest conductor.
“He didn’t know me,” Moss told CBS News. “He did not know the band. But he fell in love with the band over time, and kept coming back.”
On a later journey in 2000 or 2001, Moss said he told Gabriel, which was in his 70s at the time, “You look great, I am sure you are still holding 100.”
According to Moss, Gabriel replied, “I fully intend.”
When Moss heard, he recognized very well to pass an opportunity. He wrote a contract stating that Gabriel would be committed to operate the Vonic Municipal Band on his 100th birthday.
“So I went home, wrote a contract and mail it,” Moss said. “… He [Gabriel] Said, ‘Of course, if I do not make it 100, then this contract is zero and zero, but do not trust it.’
Gabriel’s health is declining and he cannot travel anymore. But he was firm to respect his commitment.
“Your word is your bond,” Gabriel told CBS News. “If you sign a contract, you have to complete it – no question about it.”
And that’s why, last month, remotely, he killed the Viceton Municipal Band last time. Even at the age of 100, he kept the right time. But even more important thing is that he kept his promise.
“I felt that I was on stage with him,” said Gabriel. “This is the way.”
