Burleson County veteran’s 100th birthday brings loved ones from around the world

CALDWELL, Texas (KBTX) - Sunday, friends, family, and community members gathered at the Caldwell Civic Center to honor an incredible milestone — the 100th birthday of World War II veteran Lonnie Frank.

Surrounded by nearly 300 well-wishers, Frank expressed his humble gratitude, sharing memories and reflecting on the century he has lived.

"I'm seeing people I haven't seen in 50 years, but every one of them has touched my life in some manner that has made it a little better," Frank said.

Frank, who was born in 1924, has witnessed a century of change, from growing up in rural Lone Oak to serving in one of the most defining conflicts in modern history. According to family members, he survived a near-death experiences in World War II, where he was one of only two men in his platoon to survive an attack. Last year, Frank had the opportunity to return to Normandy, the site of the D-Day landings, on a veterans' trip.

Even former Presidents George W. Bush and Donald Trump, Texas Governor Greg Abbott and Senator Ted Cruz sent their birthday greetings to the man many say seems to know everyone.

The event was filled with laughter, music, and memories. Friends and family took time to reflect on Frank's lifetime of service, wisdom, and light-hearted humor.

"When I was growing up, he was always a jokester," said Beverly Starr, one of Frank's relatives. "All of my cousins and I would go to their house, and he was always joking around. One time he was working on a car, and we were holding hands, and he shocked us all. He was always doing something like that."

For many who attended, Frank's life is a testament to faith and family values.

"I think the thing he would want everybody to know is that the Lord is the reason he's had these hundred years," said Ashley Thompson, a close family friend. "He would give all honor and glory to the Lord for the life he's had."

When asked for the secret to living a long life, Frank shrugged off the idea of any hidden wisdom but said kindness is key.

"Follow the golden rule: do unto others as you would have them do unto you," Frank said. "There's no secret. It's written in the Bible and tells you how."