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My wife’s uncle, Julius, celebrated his 103rd birthday today.

Born in Belgium.
Raised in the UK.

Enlisted at 17. Served in the UK’s 8th army in Africa fighting in North Africa against Axis forces, most notably in the battles of El Alamein.

He later served (still in his early 20s) in military intelligence with the UK’s 2nd army seeing action across Northwest Europe, including the Normandy landing.

Raised a son and daughter. Lots of grandchildren.
Politically active throughout his life.
Industrial commodities trader when he took up a profession.

A sharp wit even to this day.

A voracious reader still participating in an international bookclub where he frequently recommends the most challenging suggestions.

Opera lover.

A man of great personal and civic insight.

Principal longevity efforts (by his account):

  • Never stopped walking. Especially across the Downs, the rounded and grass-covered hills in southern England.
  • Still sleeps in his bedroom on the second floor of his house.
  • Still enjoys an evening at the pub.
  • Ends his evening meal with a digestif.
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