Oklahoma World War II Veteran Celebrates 100th Birthday

A local World War II veteran celebrated his 100th birthday Tuesday at Forest Glade Retirement facility in Bethany.

Glen Gorrell grew up in a farm house just east of Ponca City. His family lived through the "Dust Bowl," and Gorrell was a member of George S. Patton's forces that landed in Normandy, France just after the invasion during World War II.

After the war, Gorrell returned to Ponca City, where he and his wife Juanita raised three children. Gorrell worked for Continental Oil for many years. His wife died 33 years ago, and Gorrell never re-married. He says the keys to a long life are good genes and a sense of humor.

"Do what you do the best you can do it, and let the chips fall where they may," he said.

While Gorrell hasn't had a driver's license in five years, he told his family he wanted a new car for his 100th birthday.