Wheaton, Illinois — Retired U.S. Air Force Col. Arnald Gabriel, a World War II veteran, celebrated a significant milestone last month. At the age of 100, he fulfilled a promise made decades ago to conduct the Wheaton Municipal Band. Gabriel, who also served in the U.S. Army, is known for his leadership of the U.S. Air Force Band, which gained international acclaim under his direction.

The journey began in 1992 when Bruce Moss, the conductor of the Wheaton Municipal Band, invited Gabriel to be a guest conductor. Moss recalled, "He did not know me. He did not know the band. But he fell in love with the band over time, and kept coming back."

During a visit in the early 2000s, Moss made a light-hearted comment about Gabriel's longevity. He told Gabriel, then in his 70s, "You look so good, I bet you'll still be conducting at 100." Gabriel responded, "I fully intend to." This exchange inspired Moss to draft a contract, committing Gabriel to conduct the band on his 100th birthday.

Moss explained, "So I went home, wrote a contract and mailed it to him. He said, 'Of course, if I don't make it to 100, this contract's null and void, but don't count on it.'" Despite his declining health and inability to travel, Gabriel was determined to honor his commitment.

"Your word is your bond," Gabriel stated. "If you sign a contract, you have to fulfill it — no question about it." Last month, he conducted the Wheaton Municipal Band remotely, maintaining perfect timing throughout the performance.

Reflecting on the experience, Gabriel said, "It felt like I was there on stage with them. That's the way it felt." His dedication to keeping his promise has left a lasting impression on those who know him.