06/06/2026
~*~ Hometown Hero's Spotlight~*~
The Bradford Boys
On a short, quiet street in the heart of downtown Chincoteague, family was at the center of daily life. Cousins darted from yard to yard, visiting uncles who were always ready with a game, a laugh, or a treat, while aunts and grandparents kept a watchful eye and prepared supper. It was a close-knit community where family ties ran deep.
Among those beloved uncles were three of our Hometown Heroes: Frank, Elton, and Floyd Bradford, sons of Mr. and Mrs. William Henry (W.H.) Bradford of Chincoteague. When their country called during World War II, all three brothers answered, serving from 1941 to 1945.
Frank Bradford (1912–2003), the eldest brother, entered military service during the mobilization of the early 1940s alongside his younger brothers. Drawing on his technical skills and training, he contributed to strengthening the U.S. Army's wartime efforts. After the war, he married Isabelle Thibodeau of Chicago. His niece, MMary Walling fondly remembers him as a sweet and kind uncle who was always there for her—a steady presence who became like a second father.
Elton Bradford (1917–1995) also served in the U.S. Army during World War II. Local post-war news accounts note that he received treatment for tuberculosis at the McGuire Veterans Administration Hospital in Richmond. He married Almeda Young of Oak Hall and returned to civilian life on the Eastern Shore. Although they had no children of their own, Elton and Almeda were devoted to their many nieces and nephews, whom they loved to spoil.
Floyd Bradford (1925–1998) served in the U.S. Navy as a Coxswain. He returned home in October 1945 after completing a three-year deployment in the South Pacific. Following his wartime service, he married Anna Belle Williams and spent many years working at the local U.S. Naval Aviation Ordnance Test Station, continuing his commitment to service in a different capacity.
Today, their banners stand side by side on School Street—a fitting tribute to three brothers who served together in war and remained united in the memories of the family and community they loved.
