Borah Chapman, 105; Black World War I Veteran

Borah Chapman, 105, African American who served in a segregated infantry unit in World War I. Four years ago, Chapman was the oldest veteran honored at a ceremony in Long Beach marking the 75th anniversary of the signing of the armistice that ended the war. As a soldier, Chapman was based with his unit at Ft. Sheridan, Ill. He told his family over the years about helping to stave off a flu epidemic at the fort by prescribing whiskey for his comrades. The family treasured Chapman’s now 79-year-old discharge papers. Chapman was among the 4.3 million Americans who served in the military during World War I. He is survived by four generations--three daughters, five grandchildren, 10 great grandchildren and four great-great-grandchildren. On Friday in Pasadena.