PARIS — Maine Veterans’ Home has named Elbert “Bert” R. Theriault as the Veteran of the Month. 

Former U.S. Air Force Sgt. Theriault was born in Rumford on Aug. 7, 1930, to a family of six boys to Leo and Stella Theriault. He graduated from Stephens High School in Rumford.

Theriault enlisted in the Air Force on June 29, 1951, and served during the Korean War. He served in Korea, Savannah, Ga., and North Africa. He was a senior photo interpreter specialist in the intelligence department.

He earned two Bronze Service Stars, a Good Conduct medal, a National Defense Service medal, U.N. Service medal and the Korean Service Medal. He was honorably discharged on June 28, 1955.

On June 29, 1955, Theriault signed up for the U.S. Air Force Reserves and served until June 28, 1959.

Theriault traveled from North Africa to Germany in 1954 to meet up with his brother, Larry, who came by train from Spain. He also traveled to Germany to visit his son who was stationed there, and he has taken many trips to Florida with a group of his friends.

Theriault married Virginia “Ginny” Koris on Dec. 1, 1956, and they were married for 33 years until her passing on April 28, 1990. They have four children, Lisa, Ray, Steve and Tim; and ten grandchildren, Jessica, Michael, Stefan, Alina, Jackson, Sarah, Tori, Nicco, Roland and Amelia.

Theriault worked for the Oxford Paper Company in Rumford before and after his service, before becoming a letter carrier for the U.S. Postal Service. He eventually became the assistant postmaster in Rumford. He was a bartender at the VFW Eagles Club and the Elks Legion for more than 50 years.

Theriault was a very good athlete, and he was one of the best pitchers in the men’s softball league. He has many horseshoe trophies, including state champion. He also enjoyed playing pool and received many trophies. Theriault was active in club activities and traveled with local clubs to many tournaments. When younger, he worked as a “pin boy” at the bowling alleys.

Theriault enjoys the Boston Red Sox, Boston Celtics, listening to country music, reading and watching old western movies and books, reading the newspaper and being outside. He came to the Maine Veterans’ Home in January 2013 and resides on the C-Unit.