Celebrating a century of valor: va hosts birthday party for nine world war ii veterans | va houston health care | veterans affairs

At a heartwarming party filled with laughter, nostalgia and gratitude, nine Texas World War II Veterans were honored this week at the Beaumont VA Outpatient Clinic. The event was a special

birthday celebration for the Veterans, all of whom are celebrating at least 100 years of life in 2025. One of the guests of honor, Lennie Benoit, a 102-year-old Army Air Corps Veteran,

arrived an hour early for the celebration and was immediately surrounded by grateful well-wishers.   Benoit, who served as a corporal in the Pacific Theater of World War II, remembers a lot

about his time in the service. After dropping out of school in the 8th grade to help support his family, he was drafted into the military and says he was proud to serve.  "I helped to

load planes during the war" he said.  "I remember flying over Japan and seeing the devastation after the bombing and I remember celebrating the end of the war with my fellow

servicemen by drinking warm beer."    Benoit and each of the other World War II Veterans in attendance at the party, were honored individually for their service and their contributions

to society.  Each have accomplished much in their lives, with their military service occurring more than 80 years ago.    Army Veteran Willis Livingston, who will be 101 this December,

brought his daughter and son to the celebration.  Livingston was married for 76 years and worked at Bordon Ice Cream in Beaumont for more than 20 years.  Army Veteran Thomas Harris, who will

turn 100 in April, was a demolition expert during the war and today is an avid fisherman.    Navy Veteran Jennings Arrington, became a welder after leaving military service and eventually

became a Shop/Ag teacher in Orange, Texas. He also owned a very successful Texas barbecue restaurant, JB, for 40+ years. "Each of the amazing Veterans at the celebration has a special

story and has contributed so much to our country and their communities," said social worker, Myia Barton who works with Veterans at the Beaumont VA Clinic. "It is truly our honor

and privilege to serve them." Barton organized the birthday party after meeting a Veteran last year who was turning 100 without friends and family.    "At the VA, we care deeply

for the patients we serve," she said.  "Putting together this event was meant to be a heartfelt acknowledgement of their service, sacrifice and resilience.  We hope they all left

feeling the love and appreciation that are in our hearts." When asked about the secret to living a long life, several of the Veterans had good advice to share.  "Young people need

to stay clean and avoid drugs," Livingston said.    "Music is what makes me happy," said Benoit.  "If you find what makes you happy you have a lot to live for."

Veterans honored at the event include Lennie Benoit, who will be turning 103 in December; Maurice Fournet, who will be turning 102 in July; Ignace Trahan, who will be turning 102 in

December; Sam Davis, who is turning 101 in May; Willis Livingston, who will be turning 101 in December; Ray Tweedel turned 100 in February; Thomas Harris will turn 100 in April; Jennings

Arrington will be 100 in May; and Jack Wheat will be 100 in December.