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World War 2 Veteran celebrates 102nd birthday at VA Central Iowa

Fred and VA staff
VA Staff celebrate with Fred Adams Sr. on his 102nd birthday.
By Dan Kuester, Public Affairs Officer

Fred Adams Sr., a World War 2 Veteran and Des Moines native, celebrated his 102nd birthday at VA Central Iowa Friday.

VA Central Iowa Director Lisa Curnes presented Fred with a birthday cake and also honored Fred's service with a Command Challenge Coin. 

Adams is an Army Veteran who served from 1941 to 1946 in North Africa and Italy.

Fred is a graduate of East High School and reflected that "if you don't have family and friends you ain't got a hill of beans.

"I'm just happy to be here," he added.  

Fred has been getting care at the VA Central Iowa since he got out of the service in 1946.

His son, Fred Adams Jr., 83, serves as his caregiver.