World War 2 veteran celebrates his 101st birthday

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- A celebration marked a special birthday for a dedicated Valley World War Two veteran. Some of Jack Schwartz's friends met up to celebrate his 101st birthday Wednesday morning.

Just three days into the war Schwartz was captured in Guam and ended up spending more than 1,300 days as a prisoner of war. Even after liberation, he remained in the service.

"They always say I was lucky. So many died, I came out the whole thing fine-- and here I am," said Schwartz.

After retiring he came to the Central Valley and became an engineer.

Schwartz said "clean living and hard work" is his motto and secret to long life.