Originally from Canton, Ohio, Howard Mihoan, still affectionately referred to as 'First Sergeant,' has become an integral member of the Veteran community in McCormick, South Carolina through his service to others.

Milhoan's military journey began in 1945 when he enlisted in the Navy at just 17 years old. He served in the Pacific Theater aboard LST 1074, as a Gunners Mate Striker, maintaining all of the weapons abroad the ship. They were responsible for ferrying troops and equipment to and from the shorelines and various transport ships. Milhoan's enlistment overlapped closely with the end of World War II, and he returned to civilian life in 1946. 

Coming from a family with five brothers, Milhoan wasn't the only one who answered the call to serve. When the Korean War broke out, Milhoan's brothers were of age to enlist and joined the Army. Milhoan says he felt it was his duty, as the eldest brother, to re-enlist and join the fight as well. In 1951, Milhoan's enlistment in the Army made him a Veteran of two wars across two branches of service. He served as First Sergeant with the 987th Armored Field Artillery supporting several military units including the 7th Infantry and & 6th Marine Divisions. The 987th was the only Ohio National Guard unit to be activated and sent to Korea. In May of 1951, the Chinese Army joined the fight alongside the North Koreans. The Chinese Army attacked the ROK Army with the intent to encircle the 7th Infantry and the 6th Marines. The 987th AFA fired over 300,000, 105 howitzer rounds into the breach so that the Chinese Army could not advance, saving many of their fellow service members lives.  

Now, almost 75 years since his time in the military, Milhoan is still involved in the Veteran community and has continued the mission of service long into his civilian life. Howard has occupied positions on many military Veteran councils and boards, and he is a lifetime member of the American Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars. He currently serves as the Chaplain for the McCormick Area Veterans Association and is still very active in supporting the military community in the area. He does this by taking Veterans, or their family, members to hospital or doctor appointments and making Board recommendations on how to better serve the military community. 

Milhoan, who will celebrate his 99th birthday this November, attributes his long life to his commitment to do something kind for another person each day adding, “It's hard to hit a moving target, and as long as I can keep moving, I don’t figure anything will catch up to me." 

Those close to him say his positive outlook and kind spirit serve as an inspiration.

We are excited to recognize First Sergeant Howard Milhoan as the November 2026 Veteran of the Month!