Earl Moore Gladson was born April 25, 1916 to James A. Gladson, Sr. and Penny Jenkins Gladson. He lived in Jones, Duplin, and Lenoir County. Earl was one of ten children, five boys and five girls. Four of the boys served in the armed services. Earl served in Europe during World War II, where he fought in the Po Valley Campaign. Among other medals, he was awarded the Purple Heart. He died October 26, 1976.

He is honored by Yvonne Sanderson, Johnnie Gladson, Howard Gladson, and Helen Wiggins.