World War II veterans represent one of the most resilient generations, carrying memories of a pivotal era in global history. Now among the oldest living people worldwide, these individuals witnessed remarkable events, faced unimaginable hardships, and helped shape the post-war world. Their lives after the war reflect enduring dedication, whether through community service, mentoring, or preserving history. This list honors eight of the oldest living veterans from around the world, each with a unique story of bravery, resilience, and contributions that continue to inspire us today.
Ilie Ciocan (111 years old)
Born on May 28, 1913, in Cremenari, Romania
Ilie Ciocan joined the Romanian Armed Forces in 1935. His role as a gunner and courier meant he saw intense combat on both Eastern and Western Fronts. Ciocan’s regiment was among those that faced extreme conditions at the Battle of Stalingrad. After returning home in 1945, he became a blacksmith, contributing significantly to rebuilding his local community. He also became a local hero, speaking to students and historians about the harsh realities of the Eastern Front. Over time, he earned the rank of honorary major and received numerous commendations for his bravery. Today, he is celebrated as a symbol of resilience, often attending local events to share his life story.
Vitantonio Lovallo (110 years old)
Born on March 28, 1914, in Avigliano, Basilicata, Italy
Vitantonio Lovallo’s military service began at 24 in the Italian Army, where he was stationed primarily in Bari. During the war, he spent time as a prisoner in Corfu, where he endured challenging conditions. Lovallo’s post-war life was marked by a return to farming, but he eventually became a community leader, using his experiences to advocate for peace. Lovallo’s vineyard became a central meeting place for veterans in his region, and his story inspired a local documentary. Known for his simplicity and philosophical outlook, he often attributes his longevity to working with the land and leading a quiet life.
Maurice Le Coutour (110 years old)
Born on May 14, 1914, in Gouberville, Normandy, France
Maurice Le Coutour joined the French Resistance at the height of Nazi occupation in Normandy. His role as a covert messenger allowed him to gather and transport critical intelligence. After the liberation, he continued serving his country as a civil engineer, helping rebuild bridges and roads destroyed during the war. Le Coutour’s dedication to freedom earned him the French Legion of Honor. He remains deeply involved in veterans’ affairs, advocating for remembrance ceremonies and supporting younger generations. Today, he is known as a local hero, attending school events to educate students about the impact of the Resistance.
Eugene Baltes (110 years old)
Born on October 29, 1914, in River Forest, Illinois, USA
Eugene Baltes enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1941, where he served as a combat engineer in Europe. He was among the first units to cross into Germany, witnessing the final days of the war. After returning home, he used his GI Bill to study engineering, eventually becoming a respected civil servant. Baltes’ commitment to his country continued with a career at the U.S. Postal Service, where he was known for his dedication and integrity. In retirement, he traveled extensively, meeting other veterans and reflecting on his service. His community holds him in high regard, frequently inviting him to veteran ceremonies and civic events.
Donald Rose (109 years old)
Born on December 24, 1914, in the United Kingdom
Donald Rose joined the Royal Navy as a young man, participating in the Battle of the Atlantic, where he endured long periods at sea. His ship was one of the few that successfully evaded enemy submarines during an intense German U-boat campaign. After the war, he pursued maritime engineering, innovating improvements in naval vessel design. Rose’s efforts contributed significantly to naval safety standards, and he received multiple honors for his contributions. Known for his quiet nature and sharp intellect, Rose often shares his war stories at naval museums. His paintings, depicting life at sea, are beloved by many and often auctioned to benefit veterans’ charities.
Albert Middleton (109 years old)
Born on March 11, 1915, in the United Kingdom
Albert Middleton was a lieutenant in the Canadian Army and served in the Pacific theater, facing challenging jungle warfare. His leadership earned him the respect of his platoon, and he received several awards for bravery. After the war, Middleton became a history professor, channeling his experiences into a lifelong dedication to educating students. His publications on World War II are widely respected, providing insights into the psychological effects of war on soldiers. He remains active, often delivering lectures and participating in historical symposiums. Middleton is also a strong advocate for veterans’ rights, influencing policies that support veterans in academia.
Burdett Sisler (109 years old)
Born on April 14, 1915, in the United States
In the U.S. Marine Corps, Burdett Sisler was stationed in the Pacific and played a crucial role in island-hopping campaigns. His unit faced heavy resistance in battles such as Iwo Jima, where Sisler’s bravery and quick thinking saved lives. Returning to the U.S., he dedicated over 30 years as a firefighter, where his courage continued to shine. Sisler’s community has honored him repeatedly for his service both during and after the war. He frequently attends veteran reunions, sharing his experiences and encouraging young people to serve with integrity. His woodcraft projects, many of which are intricate military replicas, are admired by collectors.
Henry Polichetti (109 years old)
Born on July 3, 1915, in the United States
Henry Polichetti’s role as a navigator was critical to the success of bombing raids over Europe. His calm demeanor helped his crew through high-stress missions, including several harrowing escapes from enemy fire. After the war, Polichetti pursued an aviation engineering career, where he pioneered safety innovations for commercial aircraft. His designs improved passenger safety and were adopted across the aviation industry. Known for his dedication to the skies, Polichetti mentors young pilots in his spare time. His community celebrates his contributions, often inviting him to local aviation events and conferences.
This article originally appeared on Rarest.org.
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