Joslyn Center hosts drive-by celebration for World War II veteran turning 105 on Veterans Day
The Joslyn Center hosted a drive-through birthday celebration for John Curran, a World War II veteran, who turned 105-years-old on Veterans Day. The community knows him as Uncle John.
His nephew JD Lewis and members of the Joslyn Center, where Uncle John spends much of his time, organized the event and the surprise parade was held in the center's parking lot on Wednesday, November 11, 2020, from 11am – 12pm.
Uncle John said said it was all a big surprise and that he was very grateful. Many of his friends and family had wonderful things to say about him. Frank Holback, one of his friends, said, "Uncle John happy birthday, you're the greatest guy i've ever known." Paul Clowers, a friend of Uncle John and worker at the Joslyn Center, said, "Uncle John, I love you. I hope you had a wonderful birthday because you fill our lives with lots of fun and enjoyment every time we see you."
His nephew JD Lewis added, "Thank you so much for your service and for being such a wonderful role model to me and my siblings."
Jack Newby, a friend celebrating Uncle John's birthday, said, "This has turned out a great recognition of your service on your birthday and on Veterans Day." Paul Rayner, a long time neighbor and friend of Uncle John, said, "It's been an absolute honor and pleasure to know him and hopefully there will be a few more birthdays to go with this one."
The parade included a presentation from Congressman Raul Ruiz's office, participation from the Rancho Mirage and Palms to Pines Rotary Clubs and VFW Post 3699 in Indio as well as an appearance from the Palm Springs Air Museum.
Congressman Dr. Raul Ruiz joined the celebration and brought Uncle John a flag he had flown over the United States capitol in his honor along with an extension of remarks. Ruiz said, "It’s a written document that i have inserted into our congressional record honoring his birthday, telling his story, and honoring veterans day that will last forever in our nation’s history.”
World War II Veteran John Curran “Uncle John” turns 105 today on #VeteransDay. Tonight at 5 p.m. on @KESQ I will have a look at the celebration put on by the @Joslyn_Center for him. pic.twitter.com/zpKM2cOyXH
— Taban Sharifi (@TabanSharifi) November 11, 2020
The event was free and open to the public. All in the community were invited to participate.
Rebecca Ruffing was one of the main organizers of the celebration with the Joslyn Center. She said the event was originally going to be at John's home but more people wanted to come so they decided to move it to the Joslyn Center so it would be easier for more to stop by. She said, "Every time he comes he's bringing gifts, he brings ladies chocolates, and he is always good for a funny witty comment."
Many thinking and asking Uncle John what his secret to a long life is. When News Channel 3's Taban Sharifi asked John that question. He laughed jokingly and said, "I am going to keep it a secret!"
