Major Bill White is America's oldest living Marine, and he just celebrated another remarkable year of life.

On Friday, July 31, Major White celebrated his 105th birthday. KOVR-TV reports that family, friends, and people wishing him well organized a drive-by parade outside of the assisted living center White calls home in Stockton, California. Like many such facilities, White's is following strict COVID-19 safety protocols, so while he couldn't have friends and family inside to celebrate, he did get to see them in the special tribute.



If White looks familiar, it's because a campaign to flood his room with Valentine's Day cards when viral back in January.

KTXL-TV reported that White spent 30 years in the Corps, and was awarded the Purple Heart after surviving the Battle of Iwo Jima during World War II. He was wounded when a grenade detonated mere inches away from him.

105 years. That's crazy to me. White was born in 1915. Just think about all the history he's witnessed, even outside of his service in World War II. He, along with all our surviving WWII vets, has a perspective we could probably all benefit from as we live through these tough times.

When asked the secret of this longevity, White said he's remained an avid reader to keep his mind sharp. Just another thing to admire about him!

White says he's now aiming for 106. I definitely look forward to seeing news of him celebrating this time next year. Hopefully by then he'll be able to spend the day with family and friends.

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