100-Year-Old WWII Veteran Celebrates Milestone on Battleship

John Quinesso Sr., known as "Johnny Q," has volunteered on the Battleship New Jersey for over 20 years.

Published on Feb. 5, 2026

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John Quinesso Sr., a 100-year-old World War II Navy veteran from Vineland, New Jersey, celebrated his birthday on the Battleship New Jersey, where he has volunteered for over 20 years. Quinesso, known as "Johnny Q," enlisted after high school and served as a radio operator, famously being the one to inform his crew that the war had ended. Now a centenarian, Quinesso still lives independently, drives himself to appointments, and credits staying busy as a key to his longevity.

Why it matters

Quinesso's story highlights the remarkable resilience and longevity of some World War II veterans, as well as the importance of remaining active and engaged in one's later years. His dedication to volunteering on the Battleship New Jersey for over two decades also speaks to the enduring legacy of those who served during the war.

The details

After high school, Quinesso enlisted in the Navy and served as a radio operator on a ship during World War II. He was the one who informed his crew that the war had ended, as they were preparing for the invasion of Japan. Quinesso is now 100 years old and still lives independently, drives himself, and volunteers regularly on the Battleship New Jersey, where he says the camaraderie and activity keep him young.

  • Quinesso turned 100 years old in late January 2026.
  • Quinesso has volunteered on the Battleship New Jersey for over 20 years.

The players

John Quinesso Sr.

A 100-year-old World War II Navy veteran from Vineland, New Jersey, known as "Johnny Q," who still lives independently, drives himself, and has volunteered on the Battleship New Jersey for over 20 years.

John Quinesso Jr.

The son of John Quinesso Sr., who praised his father's independence and self-sufficiency at 100 years old, calling him "an anomaly."

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What they’re saying

“I'm honored that I played a small part in preserving our country.”

— John Quinesso Sr. (Battleship New Jersey)

“He still drives, he lives alone, he goes to all of his doctor's appointments. He's very independent and self-sufficient. He's an anomaly! Really at this stage in the game.”

— John Quinesso Jr., Son of John Quinesso Sr. (CBS News)

“That's what keeps me young. If you sit home and just twiddle your fingers, you won't last long.”

— John Quinesso Sr. (CBS News)

What’s next

The Battleship New Jersey plans to continue honoring John Quinesso Sr. and other World War II veterans through events and volunteer opportunities.

The takeaway

John Quinesso Sr.'s remarkable longevity and continued independence at 100 years old, as well as his decades-long dedication to volunteering on the Battleship New Jersey, serve as an inspiring example of the resilience and civic-mindedness of World War II veterans.