Willie “Bill” Dawson, a World War II veteran from St. Louis, Missouri recently turned 108 years old. Dawson says his secret to a long life is staying active all the time. As a younger man Dawson fought in World War II as a Buffalo Soldier, a member of the 92nd Infantry Division. Dawson spent time overseas in Italy for 17 months.
Dawson says that he has also been active in church for over 90 years.
When he was 85 years old, he was delivering Meals on Wheels. When he was 103, he was chosen to throw out the first pitch at a St. Louis Cardinals Major League baseball game. He still lives in his home which is known in the neighborhood for having the largest and prettiest flower garden in the summer.
Dawson also emphasized the importance of his family for his longevity. He was happily married to his wife Doris for 61 years until she died. The couple had 3 children, two grandchildren, and one great-grandson.
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