Century-old celebrations are quite the feat, and for World War II vet Wilbur Harkness, turning 101 is a marvel of longevity and history coming alive in Midland. Born in the vibrant era of the Roaring 20s, Harkness's life has been a testament to dedication, both on the battlefield and at home.
This decorated pilot flew 44 missions in a B-26, earning three Silver Stars, and his tale of determination began even before he could enlist, according to KENS 5, when he was told to bulk up on bananas to meet the weight requirement for the military service, a humorous yet inspiring snippet of his past shared by his daughter Jan Lary.
After decades of hard work and time served protecting his country, Harkness now enjoys the calmer waters of retirement, a period punctuated last year when a bout with COVID-19 led to an improvised birthday serenade outside his door rather than a grand celebration, as recounted by family and Your Basin highlights.
But, resilience is par for the course for Harkness, who beat COVID-19, which his son Bill credits to the healthy lifestyle his mother instilled; this lifestyle of "no alcohol, no cigarettes and things like that" has likely played a role in his longevity, Bill Harkness told KENS 5.
Now, Harkness is surrounded by the warmth of friends and family at Manor Park, where they celebrated his entry into the centenarian plus one club, and when asked about reaching such an incredible milestone, Wilbur simply said, "That’s a pretty long time," as per KENS 5, sharing his wisdom and wit that have no doubt contributed to a life well-lived and now, well-celebrated.
