LOUISVILLE, Ky. — A lifelong Kentuckian who served in World War II celebrated his 102nd birthday on Sunday. James Ralph Cochran was a radio operator for the United States Army Air Forces. In Dec. 1942, U.S. Army was reorganized into three forces: Army Air Forces, Ground Forces and Services of Supply.
A surprise party was arranged for Cochran at the assisted living center he lives in. The veteran received 102 letters from residents of Hopkinsville, where he spent many years at. He was also honored through a proclamation from U.S. Representative Morgan McGarvey, D-Ky.
During the party, Cochran reflected on his life.
“I feel like I was fortunate because I had an excellent marriage, I had an excellent time in the service and I’m just fortunate that I’m as old as I am, and I don’t have any particular aches right now,” Cochran said.
His words of wisdom for younger Americans are to work hard and be grateful to live in America.
Several organizations that work with veterans came together to organize Sunday’s surprise party.