This past weekend, Frank Pugliano Sr., a World War II veteran, celebrated his 103rd birthday. Surrounded by friends and family at Boyce Park near Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Pugliano marked this incredible milestone with joy and reflection.
“The greatest day of my life,” he told local ABC affiliate WTAE. “I never thought I’d be here at 103, going from what I went through. You never know. A lot of my friends never made it, but I made it.”
A Life Rich with Experiences
Pugliano’s life has been one of rich experiences and resilience. Born in Italy, he immigrated to the United States at the age of six. Settling in Washington Township, Pennsylvania, he attended Penn Hills High School, where he met his future wife, Mary Strough.
After graduating in 1942, Pugliano enlisted in the U.S. Army, serving three years in the Pacific theater during World War II.
He survived a harrowing torpedo attack by the Japanese on a convoy mission to Luzon in the Philippines, an ordeal that claimed many lives but spared his.
Post-War Life and Family
Honorably discharged in 1945, Pugliano returned home and married his high school sweetheart. Together, they raised two children and enjoyed 65 years of marriage before her passing in 2011.
Despite the years, Pugliano has remained remarkably active and self-sufficient. He continues to cut his own grass, maintain his house, and play several musical instruments, including the organ, harmonica, electric guitar, and saxophone.
Career and Later Years
Pugliano worked as a diesel mechanic, specializing in heavy equipment. For the last 15 years of his career, he was employed at High View Acres, a 55-and-over residential community, where he maintained the clubhouse until the impressive age of 98.
His dedication to work and staying active has been a cornerstone of his long life.
Secrets to Longevity
On his 100th birthday, Pugliano credited his health to “good Italian genes” and staying active. He humorously noted, “I keep busy. I cut my own grass.
My diet is whatever I want to eat, I eat.” However, this year, he shared two additional secrets to his longevity and happiness with WTAE: eating dark chocolate and drinking Coke.
“The doctor told me, ‘Whatever you’re doing, do it,'” Pugliano said, emphasizing the simplicity of his approach to life.
Reflecting on a Century
Pugliano’s story is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the importance of resilience. His reflections on life are filled with gratitude for his experiences and the people who have been a part of his journey.
He acknowledges the hardship of losing friends during the war and the challenges he faced, but his outlook remains positive and focused on the present.
Conclusion: An Inspiring Legacy
Frank Pugliano Sr.’s 103rd birthday is not just a celebration of a long life but also an inspiring reminder of the values of resilience, simplicity, and gratitude.
His advice to enjoy life’s simple pleasures, stay active, and maintain a positive outlook resonates deeply.
As he continues to live independently and actively, Pugliano exemplifies how embracing life with joy and resilience can lead to a fulfilling and long-lasting journey.
Pugliano’s story continues to inspire those around him, demonstrating that a positive attitude and a few simple pleasures can indeed be the secret to a happy, long life.
TDPel Media
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