CLEVELAND — The Cleveland VA Medical Center hosted a surprise 100th birthday celebration for U.S. Army WWII Veteran Chester Lloyd, Jr.
VA police led a parade of cars, trucks and motorcycles down East Boulevard and around the campus.
Lloyd had his caregivers, friends, fellow veterans and nephew there to celebrate.
“Oh it was beautiful. It was really beautiful,” said Lloyd.
His nephew, Jackie Robinson, said the family has been waiting for him to join the “100 club” and are so thankful for this special birthday.
“Thank you for all the warm feelings that we’ve received. The VA has gone all the way to make him feel comfortable during this time,” said Robinson.
Lloyd has lived a life of service. After the Army, he worked at Glenville high school with at-risk youth.
“Kids who needed a little extra support,” explained Lloyd’s nephew Robinson. “He was there and he made sure that they were getting to class, even if they had a problem he get them squared away and get them going in the right direction.”
Lloyd continues to share love even after 100 years.
“It was always about giving back love,” said Robinson. That’s how he brought me up. He brought me home from the hospital with my dad. I watched him elevate and practice what he preached.”
Lloyd’s nephew said anyone can live the way his uncle has.
“He cares (and) keeps it simple. He cares,” Robinson said.
