Kay Clementson spent decades serving his country and a century building a life in Alice, Texas \u2014 and he is not slowing down.<\/p>\n
Clementson, a World War II Navy veteran, celebrated his 100th birthday on September 24, surrounded by family who traveled from as far as Houston to mark the milestone.<\/p>\n
He said he joined the Navy just before his 18th birthday \u2014 on purpose.<\/p>\n
“I went 2 days before I was 18 to join the Navy because I didn’t want to be drafted into the Army at 18… 2 days kept me in the Navy.”<\/p>\n
Today, Clementson still lives independently in Alice, keeping up with a daily routine that includes visiting friends, watching television, and mowing his own lawn.<\/p>\n
“Right now I do a lot of TV… and a lot of sitting around.”<\/p>\n
When asked about the secret to staying active after a century of living, Clementson pointed to a few lifestyle choices \u2014 and one longtime habit.<\/p>\n
He said avoiding heavy drinking and smoking played a role, but added:<\/p>\n
“I don’t know if it has anything to do with it but I’ve been eating peanut butter sandwiches since I was old enough to hold a sandwich.”<\/p>\n
His birthday party on September 26 brought his family together in Alice, a gathering that clearly meant a great deal to the centenarian.<\/p>\n
“It makes me feel proud of my family. I love every one of them.”<\/p>\n
As for what comes next, Clementson said he is content right where he is.<\/p>\n
“I don’t have any plans except doing what I’m doing, because I’m happy with what I’m doing.”<\/p>\n
This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.<\/p>\n
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