The oldest living U.S. Marine celebrated his 105th birthday on Friday despite the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.
The video: Local CBS affiliate KOVR captured the festivities for retired Maj. Bill White of Stockton, California, which featured a drive-by parade and a salute from local police.
- White, a World War II veteran, sat outside the Oaks at Inglewood assisted living facility in full dress uniform and with a poster and a “105” mylar balloon.
- “Feels just as good as it did at 104,” he said of the celebration.
- “It does get to you that there are so many people that love him and appreciate him for his service,” said his daughter, Mary Huston.
White achieved a degree of national fame in January after he issued a request for Valentine’s Day cards during an appearance on local TV.
- He eventually received over 500,000 cards and gifts, including greetings from President Donald Trump and NASA, according to KOVR.
American warrior: White retired from the Marines at age 54 after 30 years of service.
- He was wounded during the 1945 Battle of Iwo Jima while leading troops in a charge against Japanese forces.
- “When I was wounded, I didn’t have any choice in the matter,” he told local Fox affiliate KTXL in the January segment. “A grenade blow up about 6 inches from me.”
- “I’m still here,” he noted. “Can’t complain.”
