Ken Mar, a distinguished World War II veteran and former prisoner of war, marked a significant milestone as he celebrated his 100th birthday in Sacramento, California. Surrounded by fellow veterans from the Gung Ho American Legion, Mar was honored for his service and contributions during a special gathering held on Thursday.
Freeman Lee, a member of the Gung Ho American Legion, expressed the pride felt by the community, stating, “We’re proud to have him in our post.” The celebration featured a cake adorned with candles, and attendees sang “Happy Birthday” to commemorate Mar’s remarkable life journey.
Reflecting on a Century of Experiences
Despite reaching the centenarian milestone, Mar remains humble and reflective. He commented, “I don’t feel any different,” showcasing his positive outlook on life. His military service began at the young age of 16, spurred by the attack on Pearl Harbor, which he learned about while watching the film “Gone With the Wind” at the Crest Theater. “Halfway through the movie, they stopped. That’s when they announced, ‘We’ve been attacked by the Japanese,’” he recalled.
Mar was drafted into the Army at 18 as part of the 2nd Infantry Division. He arrived at Omaha Beach just days after D-Day, stepping into a role as a replacement for fallen comrades. “They put me there as a replacement because they lost a lot of men that they had to go fighting at Normandy,” he explained.
His combat experiences included fighting on the Western Front in France, where he faced numerous life-threatening situations. Mar vividly recounted one close call: “That’s my first narrow escape,” referring to a mortar shell explosion near his foxhole. He also participated in the Battle of the Bulge before being captured by German forces, during which he endured three months as a prisoner of war.
Sharing Wisdom and Legacy
Despite the harrowing experiences of war, Mar has returned home and now shares his wisdom with younger generations. He emphasizes the importance of staying active, advising others to “keep moving,” which includes walking two miles daily, eating plenty of vegetables, and maintaining a calm mindset: “Well, just don’t worry.”
Mar reflects on his longevity, crediting his enduring marriage of 74 years, though he lost his wife four years ago. He is one of approximately 20,000 Chinese Americans who served in World War II. His accolades include the Congressional Gold Medal, the Bronze Star, and France’s Legion of Honor, underscoring his significant contributions to the country.
Lee concluded the tribute to Mar with a poignant statement: “How often do you get a chance to celebrate a hero on his birthday? And he was truly a hero.” As the community comes together to honor such individuals, Mar’s legacy continues to inspire future generations.
