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Friday, March 29, 2024

104-year-old veteran's drive-by birthday celebration

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104-year-old veteran's drive-by birthday celebration
104-year-old veteran's drive-by birthday celebration

When Ruth Gallivan couldn't go anywhere for her 104th birthday, she was surprised when her neighbors and friends in San Diego, California brought the party to her front door.

Ryan Brooks has more.

When Ruth Gallivan couldn't go anywhere for her 104th birthday, dozens of neighbors and friends brought the party to her front door in San Diego, California.

(SOUNDBITE) (English) HOLLY SHAFFNER, BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION ORGANIZER, SAYING: "Today we are celebrating the 104th birthday for World War II veteran Ruth Gallivan.

We believe her to be the oldest living female veteran west of the Mississippi and certainly here in the state of California.

She was one of the first marines here at MCAS (Marine Corps Air Station) Miramar and we are just excited that we could come out and celebrate her day." Holly Shaffner organized the drive-by celebration complete with American flags, happy birthday posters, and a parade of decorated cars.

Gallivan holds a special place in her local community and she was moved by all the people who showed up to celebrate her.

(SOUNDBITE) (English) RUTH GALLIVAN, 104-YEAR-OLD VETERAN, SAYING: "Well I can't believe it, this is amazing." To top it all off, a personal trumpet player, and a chorus of voices singing a heartwarming rendition of Happy Birthday -- with everyone standing at a safe distance.

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