A Florida World War II veteran is making headlines after celebrating a memorable birthday on Independence Day.
Fred A. Long Jr., a “highly decorated” U.S. Navy veteran who enlisted in 1943, was represented by the Jacksonville-area VFW chapter. 100th birthday 11Alive reported Thursday.
During his 30-year military career, Long received numerous awards, including the World War II Victory Medal, Navy Occupation Medal (European Clasp), China Service Medal, United Nations Service Medal, National Defense Korea Service Medal, Antarctic Service Medal, Navy Unit Commendation Ribbon, National Defense Service Medal with Bronze Star and nine Good Conduct Medals.
Long also received the Navy Unit Commendation Ribbon for “outstanding heroism in combat against the enemy or exceptionally meritorious service (non-combat) in support of military operations,” VFW Post 5968 told the news outlet.
Long retired in 1973 as an E-9 master chief, the highest enlisted rank available.
