World War ll veteran celebrates 102nd birthday at National Naval Aviation Museum

PENSACOLA, Fla. (WALA) - It’s a party at the National Naval Aviation Museum where dozens gathered to celebrate retired Lt. Cmdr. Cash Barber’s 102^nd birthday. Barber enlisted in the Navy in 1941 and quickly climbed the ranks.

“He enlisted when he was 17 years old at the very beginning of World War ll,” said Kyle Cozad, President & CEO of the Naval Aviation Museum Foundation. “Went on and made chief petty officer in just four years which is absolutely unheard of, but it speaks to the man we celebrate today.”

He flew in the Berlin Airlift in the late 1940s and an around the world flight in 1956 before retiring in 1971 after 30- years of service.

“It’s a been a long journey and it’s been a blessed journey,” said Retired Lieutenant Commander Cash Barber. “I’ve really been blessed to be here.”

These days Barber can be found at the naval aviation museum almost every Tuesday sitting in front of the same PBY Catalina he flew in World War ll while sharing stories from his time in the Navy

“So, everybody out in the Pacific knew that there was a Navy bomber with 200 cases of beer on board. So, you can imagine the talk on the radio.”

“He’s the reason why people flock to this museum,” said Cozad. “It’s not to see the airplanes that are beautifully restored. It’s to hear stories about the heroes who have created this great nation and our great Navy.”

Tuesday, Barber topped off his birthday celebration with cake, photos and more stories surrounded by the museum visitors he says mean the world to him

“I’m really blessed. I’m proud to have this many celebrate with me,” added Barber. Very honored to have this many.”

And when asked about what comes next. “I feel very proud and very honored,” said Barber. “I just hope I can keep it up a few more days anyway.”