World War II Veteran Celebrates His 99th Birthday With A Big Surprise By First Responders

Oct 12, 2023 by apost team

Veterans who bravely risked their lives in order to fight in wars should always be celebrated for their contributions. That’s why, if they’re still around, they deserve all the love and support from the community.

Fortunately, this is what happened to a man named Joseph Taylor Jr., who got the biggest surprise of his life when he turned 99 years old in 2022.

Fox 8 reported that the veteran was born in 1923 in Pennsylvania. He served during World War II as a spotter. One of his main tasks back in the day was to check out if there were enemy planes and ships around.

According to a news report by WKYC Channel 3 in July 2022, the sweet old man from Brunswick celebrated his birthday with a surprise organized by his neighbors to honor his bravery and give him the best possible treatment.

People who lived close by Taylor decided to contact the fire and police departments to help them with their plan. On the day of his celebration, the old man was surprised when fire trucks and police cars paraded in front of his apartment.

“I didn’t know what was going on. Very surprised,” he told the outlet as videos of vehicles turning their sirens on played.

“Didn’t think that would happen for me. People don’t do that for me, but they did. Very nice of them too,” he said.

According to the news report, policemen gathered on his front lawn and gave him balloons as well as a birthday cake. People then clapped and celebrated as he blew the candle to mark the momentous occasion.

Brunswick Fire Chief Greg Glauner said Taylor was a “survivor,” being among those who fought and served during World War II, so it was important for them to honor him.

Regarding his secret to living a long life, Taylor said people have to “live clean and throw the bottle away” as too much “bottle” is bad for everyone.

Joseph Taylor Jr. went on to live another year and received yet another big surprise from his community as he celebrated his 100th birthday in July 2023.

WKYC Channel 3 reported that the special occasion was celebrated by the veteran along with his neighbors, first responders, the American Legion Post 234, and more. 

At the time, Taylor said he was proud of his contribution during his service, and he was excited to enter his 100s.

In honor of his centennial year, he was given a proclamation to celebrate his birthday and a certificate of congratulations from elected officials in Brunswick.

In the news report, people could be seen gathering in front of his home as he sat down comfortably with two other elderly men.

People in his community were not the only ones who greeted him, as he also received support from online users.

“He looks fantastic! Happy birthday sir. 🎉,” one commented on WKYC Channel 3’s video.

“Happy Birthday Joseph God Bless You 😘😘😘😘❤❤❤❤❤💯💯💯💯🙏🏽,” another one wrote.

“Happy Birthday! Thanks for your service! Enjoy your special day!” one wrote on a Facebook post.

“Thank you for your service, Happy birthday,” another one greeted.

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What would you do to honor the veterans who served and fought during the World Wars? Let us know your thoughts, and make sure to pass this on to your friends and family.