BVA National Headquarters joins the Illinois Regional Group in sending congratulations and best wishes to Navy veteran Eugene J. Baltes of River Forest, Illinois, on still another milestone birthday last Sunday. The regional group expresses gratitude for his service, longevity, and desire to affiliate with BVA.

Gene was born on October 29, 1914, making this recent birthday his 109th. Although not surprising, it is still noteworthy that Gene is the oldest BVA member not only currently but the oldest member ever in BVA’s almost 79-year history.

Gene began his military career in November 1941 just weeks before the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor. Following his discharge, he worked 18 years for the U.S. Postal Service. His years in retirement have been spent traveling, playing golf, and supporting his church.

Gene repeats his advice frequently for a long and healthy life, which is to never smoke and never drink!

No less remarkable is that Louisiana-Mississippi Regional Group member Earl Forstall, born in 1919, turned 104 years old on September 23. The regional group maintains contact with Earl and reported his birthday in its recent monthly newsletter.