World War II Veteran Celebrates 100th Birthday
North Florida/South Georgia VA Healthcare System wishes Mr. William Cummings a happy 100th birthday! The Lake City Home Based Primary Care team and Chaplain Andrew Buehner met William and his family in Worthington Springs at his home to celebrate and honor him on his special day.
A centenarian isn’t something you see every day, especially a Veteran Centenarian. Every day, memories of World War II are disappearing from living history. William is not one of those disappearing memories. He endured many things throughout his career and continues his resilience today as he reaches this milestone in his life.
William served in the U.S. Navy from July 1943-1946 as a Machinist Mate, obtaining the rank of Petty Officer 2nd class before retiring from service at the conclusion of WWII. During his time in the service, he maintained seaplanes, specifically working on the Martin PBM Mariner Sea Planes while deployed to the Pacific theater of operations during the war.
Upon completing his military service, William was inspired by his military work and utilized the GI Bill to attend college, complete his education, and become a flight engineer. After completing his degree, William became a pilot with Eastern Airlines and eventually Avianca Airlines, where he would fly routes from Europe to South America. During his career, he worked with multiple airlines including Ryan Air and Flying Tiger. He eventually transitioned from flying to engineering, eventually designing aircraft as well while employed with Boeing.
Not only does William enjoy flying but he also loves anything that has to do with tools, painting, building, to designing fish aquariums and birdhouses. He also has a deep appreciation for great service and that is why he has been coming to North Florida/South Georgia VA Health System for his health care since 2002.
William and his wife, Mrs. Cummings, worked together at one point providing sight-seeing tours of North Central Florida. He and his wife did this for around 10 years until he decided to retire 8 years ago. They now reside in Worthington Springs where this monumental birthday celebration was held.
During the birthday celebration, William shared with the Lake City team that one of his favorite things is ice cream. His wife disapproves because of the sugar content of course. Williams’ son informed everyone that his dad uses a code word when he refers to ice cream aka “EIL”. When William wants to sneak some ice cream he will announce “It’s time for EIL” as he heads back out to his shop.
A part of the celebration included William receiving the coveted VA Salute to Veterans pin from his Nurse, Linda Coleman, a certificate thanking him for his service to our Country presented to him by APRN Tara Keen and a quilt of love given by his Occupational Therapist, Diana Ortiz. NF/SGVHS was honored to take part in this great celebration for one of the amazing Centenarian Veterans we serve.
For more information on the Lake City VA Medical Center, please visit Lake City VA Medical Center | VA North Florida/South Georgia Health Care | Veterans Affairs