PARIS — The Maine Veterans’ Home veteran of the month, Emerson F. Jepson Sr., was born on April 15, 1929, and grew up in East Auburn. He has three brothers and three sisters.

Emerson was drafted into the Army on Feb. 6, 1952. He did his basic training in Pennsylvania and then he served in Fairbanks, Alaska,during the Korean War. Emerson was a gunner for the artillery — he fired the guns. He also directed incoming planes at times.

Emerson earned the National Defense Service Medal. On Jan. 11, 1954, he was discharged.

Emerson was married prior to going into the service. After serving in the Army Emerson had five children. He also has 11 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren.

Emerson’s work history consisted of working in a shoe factory. He also worked at a paper mill in Jay for 16 years. He worked in a boiler room at a sawmill for Highland Lumber in Dixfield for 21 years and then retired. He also worked at Walmart as a greeter.

Emerson loves all animals, especially his favorite dog, “Makita.” He enjoys the home’s house cat, “Macho.”

Emerson enjoys listening to the music, exercising and walking. He came to the Maine Veterans’ Home in April 2013.