World War II veteran Paul Frederick celebrates his 100th birthday in Wilmore, Kentucky; reveals the secret to a long, happy life

LEXINGTON, Kentucky (FOX 56) – As America celebrates its 248th birthday, a local veteran is celebrating his own very special birthday.

Not everyone is lucky enough to live to see their 100th birthday, especially the men and women who serve our country. However, World War II veteran Paul Frederick is an exception. He turned 100 on July 5.

“I never thought I would make it this far,” says Frederick.

He joined the Navy in 1942 and undoubtedly earned each of the 14 medals he was awarded, including the Purple Heart. He says receiving this recognition is an “honor.”

“We knew we were going to war. There was nothing we could do about it, and I don’t know, the Marines just beat me.”

On November 17, 1943, the unthinkable happened. Frederick was aboard the USS McKean when a Japanese torpedo hit the destroyer ship. Four of his men were killed and he himself was hospitalized with burns to his arm and face.

What kept him going through all these difficult times was the thought of Myrtle, the woman he had called his wife for 71 years.

With a broad grin, he said, “Out of the blue, I said, ‘You know what, when the war was over, I would ask you to marry me.’ She said, ‘Why wait?’ And that’s how we got engaged.”

Together they built a life with their two sons.

After the war, Frederick returned to the United States, where he worked for the postal service and as a Boy Scout leader.

Myrtle died in 2016, but the love he feels for her is still palpable.

“The Lord is responsible for all of us,” says Frederick. “I ask Him how long He will keep me from being with Myrtle again, but He has a reason. And it might just be what we’re doing now.”

After 100 years, Frederick has seen the world change before his eyes. But despite all the turmoil the world is currently going through, he maintains his faith in the country he fought fearlessly to protect all these years.

“I still believe we are the greatest country in the world. But I don’t know where we are going. Sometimes I wonder that. But just live a good life. That’s the main thing,” says Frederick.