Here is some sad news out of Texas. Someone who really loved our troops has passed away. Rest in peace.
KILLEEN (December 24, 2015) Fort Hood’s beloved “Hug Lady,” Elizabeth Laird, who hugged hundreds of thousands soldiers as they headed out on or returned from deployments, died on Christmas Eve at Metroplex Hospital in Killeen.
Public affairs officer for III Corps, Col. Christopher C. Garver released a statement Friday.
“On behalf of the Soldiers, Airmen, Civilians, and Families of III Corps and Fort Hood, I want to extend our sincere condolences to the family of Mrs. Elizabeth Laird, known throughout Central Texas as “The Hug Lady.” She has long been associated with Fort Hood for her dedication, support, and genuine care for our Soldiers, Families and Civilian employees. For more than a decade, she has been personally saying farewell to our troops as they deploy and greeting them as they return. It is with heavy hearts that we express our gratitude for Elizabeth, not only for her service with the U.S. Air Force, but also in recognition of her tireless efforts to show her appreciation for our Soldiers and her recognition of their many sacrifices. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family and loved ones; she will be deeply missed.”
Funeral arrangements were pending Thursday at Crawford Bowers Funeral Home.
Laird, who would have turned 84 next month, vowed to greet every Fort Hood soldier who returned from deployment with a hug, battled breast cancer for 10 years.
She refused chemotherapy and radiation, opting instead for natural treatments, her son said.
Read more: KWTX
