One of the best days of the year for many people is their birthday. There are also certain birthdays that are celebrated more than others, but when you are 104 years old, every day is a celebration.
Jules Hagen recently celebrated his 104th birthday and he ‘never imagined’ he would hear people singing for that special day. When he did, he loved it, laughed, and the World War II Air Force veteran enjoyed every moment.
Many people refer to the veterans of World War II as being part of the greatest generation. They refer to them as such for a very good reason, because they have been through much that many of us will never go through.
Jules Hagen is one of those veterans who lives at the Brookdale Palma Sola. Recently, he celebrated his 104th birthday, enjoying the company and the blue frosted cupcakes.
As a veteran of the war to end all wars, he has a lot to say about life and living through such a difficult time. Even though he has seen some stressful situations, it doesn’t stop them from cracking jokes and from remembering how important it is to work hard.
He said: “My dad started me off working till noon. You got to work. Get up at six o’clock work till noon.” He also added, “Keep your d**n mouth shut and work”.
Jules worked as a command engineer, ensuring that the B-57 bombers were ready to fly their critical missions during the war. In the video, you can see him looking through the 1949 yearbook that he keeps with him on his scooter.
He offered words of wisdom, saying: “Do what they tell you in the service, don’t argue with them.”
After the war, he worked as an attorney, was a husband and father, and now keeps people company in a senior living community.
In speaking about his work ethic, he says: “I think I’ve been brought up to think the way to live is to work. You got to work. You got to plan.”
When asked about technology, he modestly replies that he doesn’t really know how to help people at this point because they are ahead of him.
Well said!
