Centenarian WWII Veteran Celebrates 100th Birthday on Independence Day

A centenarian World War II veteran and current resident of Jacksonville, Florida, will commemorate his 100th birthday on the Fourth of July this Thursday. Fred A. Long Jr., a highly decorated 30-year veteran of the U.S. Navy, will be honored with a special celebration at VFW Post 5968 in Orange Park.

Enlisting in the Navy on March 9, 1943, at NAS Jacksonville as a Seaman 2nd Class, Long’s illustrious career included service at various locations such as NAS Daytona Beach, Camp Elliot Training Center in San Diego, NAS Kaneohe in Hawaii, NAS Columbus in Ohio, and Attack Squadron 35 (VA-35) in Sanford, Florida. The VFW highlights that Long underwent a 16-week Class “B” School in Chicago, where he qualified on every aircraft constructed by the Navy.

Throughout his tenure, Long amassed a collection of accolades, including the World War II Victory Medal, Navy Occupation Medal with European Clasp, China Service Medal, UN Service Medal, National Defense Korean Service Medal, Antarctic Service Medal, Navy Unit Commendation Ribbon, National Defense Service Medal with Bronze Star, and an impressive nine Good Conduct Medals. Notably, Long was recognized with the Navy Unit Commendation Ribbon for his exceptional heroism in combat or outstanding service in non-combat military operations.

In January of 1973, after serving honorably, Long retired from the Navy, achieving the highest noncommissioned officer rank of E-9 Master Chief. His affiliation with VFW Post 5968 in Orange Park dates back to December 1993, where he holds a Life Membership. The celebration of Long’s century milestone serves as a testament to his unwavering dedication and remarkable contributions to the nation’s defense.