Celebrating a milestone birthday often involves cake, candles, and maybe a few heartfelt speeches. But for Jimmy Hernandez, a U.S. Navy veteran and World War II survivor, turning 100 meant something a bit more exhilarating: skydiving. In Davis, California, Hernandez marked his centennial by jumping out of a plane, proving that age is no barrier to adventure. This uplifting story of a veteran skydiving at 100 years old has captured attention not only for the feat itself but for the vibrant spirit behind it.

Hernandez’s leap into the sky wasn’t a solo celebration. Family and friends gathered to support him, including his 91-year-old wife, Dora, who had a front-row seat to the event. Their son and grandson joined him in the jump, creating a rare and memorable moment of three generations skydiving together. The sight of the trio descending through the sky was more than a family activity—it was a testament to legacy and shared courage.

“I’m glad that somebody showed up,” Hernandez said with a smile, reflecting the light-hearted mood of the day. His demeanor was calm and collected, even as he recounted his experience from thousands of feet in the air. “I couldn’t even see you, I was looking at the whole thing, how far we are and the lakes that you don’t get to see in your lifetime.” These words capture the awe and wonder that skydiving can inspire, even in someone who has lived through a century of change and history.

What makes this story even more compelling is the community support that surrounded Hernandez. Former neighbors traveled from out of town to witness the event and cheer him on. One of them, Collin Anderson, described Hernandez as “a dynamo” and “unstoppable,” adding that the centenarian is still climbing on his roof and driving regularly. “He’s a force,” Anderson said, underscoring the vitality that Hernandez continues to display in his daily life.

According to those close to him, this skydiving adventure had been on Hernandez’s bucket list for years. Anderson noted that it might not even be his last jump. “He might’ve found a new hobby,” he joked. While Hernandez admitted he was glad the experience was over, he never expressed fear. Instead, he seemed to savor the once-in-a-lifetime views and the thrill of the descent.

One of the most charming details from the day came when Hernandez shared his secret to longevity. “A shot of tequila a day,” he revealed, though he noted with a grin that he wasn’t allowed to have one before the flight. “I would like to have one. I’ve done it for 20 years at 5 o’clock… sometimes half a shot,” he said, referring to it as “medication.” I found this detail striking—not only for its humor but also for the glimpse it offers into Hernandez’s personality: spirited, disciplined, and with a touch of mischief.

Hernandez’s life story is as rich as it is long. A veteran of the U.S. Navy, he served during World War II and has since built a large family that includes 12 children and more than 120 descendants. His skydiving celebration was more than a personal achievement—it was a moment that brought generations together to honor a life well lived and still full of zest.

Stories like this one serve as powerful reminders that age does not define ability or spirit. Hernandez’s skydiving adventure was not just an act of thrill-seeking but a bold declaration that life can continue to be filled with new experiences, no matter how many birthdays have passed. His journey back to earth was witnessed by loved ones, etched in memory, and now shared with a wider audience inspired by his courage and joy.

As people seek inspiration in their own lives, the image of a 100-year-old veteran skydiving with his family offers a compelling narrative. It challenges assumptions about aging and highlights the importance of community, legacy, and daring to dream—no matter the number of candles on the cake.

Read more at wtoc.com