LAS VEGAS (KTNV) — Staff at Sterling Ridge Senior Living Center hosted a birthday party on Monday for a very special resident.
World War II veteran Roy Hashimura turned 104 on March 20, 2023, and spent his special day surrounded by family and friends.
"He's going to make a fool out of us. He used to tell us he might outlive us and he might be right,” his son, Charles Hashimura said.
In 1919, Hashimura was born in California to immigrant parents from Japan. During the war, Roy was forced to live in an internment camp with his parents after the Japanese bombing of Pearl Harbor, despite his status as an American citizen.
After being released from the camp, Hashimura decided to join the United States military to prove his love for his country, his son tells Channel 13.
"He wanted to prove that he was loyal to the United States,” Charles said. "He loves the United States."
During his birthday celebration, Hashimura shared what he believes is the secret to living a long, happy life — to enjoy the small things and make the most of every moment.
"That's his secret, he thinks. No stress,” Charles said. "He doesn't sweat the small stuff and he's always been like that."
