Feb 20, 2026
On Dec. 31, WWII veteran and VFW Post 609 member Bernard Long celebrated another year past his centennial birthday with an outpouring of love and recognition from fellow Post 609 members and individuals across the country who were excited to see him turn 108.
According to a newspaper article by Jeanne Theismann for the Alexandria Gazette Packet, Post 609 Commander Jerry Krueger aimed to have 108 birthday cards mailed to Long. The goal was smashed, with the centenarian having received more than 150 cards.
“It means a great deal to have Mr. Long as a member of our Post,” said Post 609 member and Marine veteran Tejas Patel. “To be able to send a birthday card to a 108-year-old veteran makes me pause and think about the sacrifices he took upon himself for his family and our country.”
Born in 1917, Long has lived through many significant eras of U.S. history, with his formative years occurring during the Great Depression. In February 1943, during the height of WWII, Long enlisted in the Army. He served as a truck mechanic with Headquarters Company, 660th Engineers Topographical Battalion.
Serving 18 months overseas, Long provided vital support in the Allie’s advancement into Normandy, having helped repair numerous vehicles in the effort to liberate France. He returned home to Arlington, Virginia, in 1946, where he has remained ever since. Today, he is supported by his son, Thomas.
Krueger first recruited Long to VFW Post 609 in February 2024, when Long was 106 years old.
“As the ranks of the ‘Greatest Generation’ become thinner, their accomplishments, as personified by Bernie Long, do not dim,” Post 609 Chaplain Martin Menez said. “They still serve as a shining light of the character, determination, dedication and valor needed in today’s environment. The qualities of men like Bernie are timeless.”
This article is featured in the 2026 February issue of Checkpoint. If you're a VFW member and don't currently receive the VFW Checkpoint, please contact VFW magazine at magazine@vfw.org.