Source: Gov. Office
WILMINGTON– Today, Governor Matt Meyer issued the following statement regarding the passing of World War II veteran James “Tommy” Anderson of Dover at the age of 102:
“Tommy Anderson was a quiet hero whose courage helped shape the course of history. From his service in the top-secret Ghost Army in World War II to his decades of contributions here at home, Tommy embodied the very best of the Greatest Generation. His ingenuity and determination saved lives on the battlefield, and his kindness and commitment enriched the community he loved. Lauren and I extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends, and all who were inspired by his remarkable life.”
To recognize Mr. Anderson’s lifetime of service to the United States and the State of Delaware, Governor Meyer orders flags at all state-owned buildings and facilities to be flown at half-staff until sunset on Friday, August 15.
James “Tommy” Anderson served in the 23rd Headquarters Special Troops – known as the Ghost Army – whose mission of tactical deception during World War II remained classified for more than 50 years. Operating inflatable tanks, sound effects, and other diversions, the Ghost Army is credited with saving an estimated 50,000 lives. He was a T4, the equivalent of a sergeant.
Anderson served in multiple European theaters, including at the Battle of the Bulge, and was awarded the Congressional Gold Medal in 2022 for his service. After the war, he returned to Delaware, working in construction, in the automotive industry, and at Trader Funeral Home until age 99. Mr. Anderson passed away on August 1, 2025.
His funeral will be 9:30 AM, Thursday, August 14, at Trader Funeral Home in Dover, followed by a private graveside burial just for family. In lieu of flowers, a gift to Wesley United Methodist Church in Dover is requested.
After knowing the Hon. Michael N. Castle passed away today (August 14), Governor Matt Meyer issued the following statement regarding the passing of former governor and U.S. representative for Delaware, Michael Castle:
“Today, Delaware mourns the passing of a remarkable public servant, Mike Castle. As governor and our state’s longest-serving U.S. Representative, he embodied what it means to lead with principle, decency, and dedication.
“During his time as governor, Mike Castle visited every single school in our state, including mine, where he spoke to my high school class with the same warmth, humility, and commitment to public service that defined his career. That moment, among others, demonstrated what a good man he was and how deeply he cared about Delaware’s future.
“He expanded access to cancer and diabetes screenings, brought health care directly to our schools, and developed community health-care centers that continue to serve Delawareans today. He strengthened our public schools and led with fiscal discipline, keeping Delaware on a sound financial foundation for years to come.
“With humor and grit, his work kept Delawareans’ interests at heart and earned him widespread respect lasting far beyond partisan lines.
“Governor Castle was a leader in a generation of Delawareans who put people before politics—whose bipartisan spirit and dedication to service set a standard to which we all aspire.
“Lauren and I extend our deepest condolences to Jane and the whole family and all who were fortunate enough to call him a friend.”
To recognize former Governor Castle’s lifetime of service to the State of Delaware, Governor Meyer orders flags at all state-owned buildings and facilities to be flown at half-staff until sunset on Thursday, August 21.
