VA Northern Indiana helps celebrate Veteran's 105th Birthday
Last week VA Northern Indiana Health Care System had the honor of helping Sergeant Lawrence W. Butler, a WWII Veteran celebrate his 105th birthday.
Lawrence who goes by Bill was born October 17, 1918, in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
Butler was an only child and joined the United States Army in 1939. He was a part of the First Armored Division where he worked with tanks.
On December 7, 1941, Butler was getting ready to go home for the holidays when he learned of the attack on Pearl Harbor, Hawaii.
“All furloughs were cancelled, and duty would continue seven days a week”, said Butler.
Butler was later deployed overseas and participated in campaigns throughout North Africa and Italy. He served as a tank commander and a platoon commander. He earned 2 WWII Campaign medals his good conduct ribbon.
Butler was discharged from the Army in 1945. He returned home and started an International Farm Tractor implement business and ran it for 30 years.
“The military taught me leadership, I had to learn to take charge, and it prepared me for things.”
Butler still lives independently; he has outlived 3 wives and has 2 daughters, 3 grandchildren, and 3 great grandchildren. When asked about his secret to longevity he replied, “walking and exercise”.
VA Northern Indiana Health System is honored to serve Butler and wish him a very happy 105th birthday.