Six Centenarian Veterans Honored in Salem

Caregivers and families celebrate a generation whose sacrifices and stories continue to inspire.

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

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Six veterans, each over 100 years old, were honored in Salem, Virginia for their service during World War II and the Korean War. The event at the Davis & McDaniel Veterans Care Center brought together family members, caregivers, and fellow veterans to celebrate the extraordinary lives and longevity of this generation.

Why it matters

Honoring centenarian veterans is a way to ensure their sacrifices and stories are never forgotten, while also recognizing their continuing presence and impact on the community. These celebrations offer a chance to reflect on history and the lasting legacy of those who served their country.

The details

The afternoon celebration featured music, applause, and well-wishers honoring the veterans' military service and long lives. The veterans, ranging in age from 100 to 102 years old, expressed gratitude for being recognized and reflected on the hardships and resilience that shaped their lifetimes.

  • The event took place on February 13, 2026.

The players

George Biggs

A 101-year-old World War II Army veteran who was emotional during the recognition, saying he couldn't believe it and thanked God every day for letting him live another day.

Eugene Prevento

A 102-year-old veteran who served during World War II and the Korean War, reflecting on a lifetime of going through both good and bad experiences.

John Eakin

A World War II veteran who said it was nice to be honored for his service.

Marsden Champaign

A Korean War Marine veteran who said the recognition honors the service of many veterans, not just the individuals being celebrated.

Renee Hash

A unit manager at the Davis & McDaniel Veterans Care Center, who said the event lets the veterans know they are being honored for their service.

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What they’re saying

“I just can't take it in, to tell you the truth. Every day I thank the good Lord in heaven that he's let me live another day.”

— George Biggs, 101-year-old World War II Army veteran

“We went through good, we went through bad… so I can't complain.”

— Eugene Prevento, 102-year-old World War II and Korean War veteran

“Well, it's nice. I think it's a nice thing to do.”

— John Eakin, World War II veteran

“It's nice to be picked out and honored for what a lot of us have done… service for our country.”

— Marsden Champaign, Korean War Marine veteran

What’s next

The Davis & McDaniel Veterans Care Center plans to continue hosting annual centenarian veteran celebrations to honor this generation and ensure their sacrifices are never forgotten.

The takeaway

Recognizing centenarian veterans is a powerful way to reflect on history, honor military service, and celebrate the resilience and longevity of those who have lived through some of the most significant events of the 20th century. These celebrations serve as a reminder that the stories and experiences of this generation continue to inspire and resonate within their communities.