World War II Veteran celebrates his 101st birthday surrounded by Friends and Family
The Westmont of San Miguel Ranch resident served alongside notable figures
Eighty years after the end of WWII, a local man will be celebrating his 101st birthday this January. Walt Travis is among the remaining few whose life experience included the war. To this day, Travis remains unwavering in his service to this country and is proud to pass on his knowledge to those younger, especially at Coronado’s Fourth of July and Christmas parades. His advice to youngsters “I want them to know how important they are,” says Travis. “I encourage them to stay in school to prepare as they are the future leaders of our county.” Travis will commemorate this special birthday with three celebrations: a private family party, a community party, and an open house to be held at Westmont of San Miguel Ranch.
As an 18-year-old marine recruit in 1942, Travis served in the Pacific Theater in Guadalcanal, New Guinea and Philippines alongside the VMF-115 fighter attack squadron led by Medal of Honor recipient Joe Foss. Travis assisted with aircraft maintenance personnel to keep the squadron in the fighting form. Notably, Charles Lindbergh also flew with the squadron. According to a story in The Coronado News, “Travis remains proud about being part of the VMF-115 squadron with record-setting aviators like Foss and Lindbergh, who was “the best mechanic around.” Travis recalls, “When I was aboard the Hospital Ship heading towards an undisclosed destination, they announced that the Golden Gate Bridge was ahead. As we sailed under the Bridge, I remember thinking I never thought I would be coming back.”
Travis stays active as a member of the Marine League Coronado Detachment. He attended an Honor Flight trip to Washington D.C. and continues to attend every San Diego homecoming after each Honor Flight. He is also the unofficial welcome committee for new veteran residents when they move into Westmont of San Miguel Ranch. For more information about Westmont of San Miguel Ranch, call 619-271-4385 or email crdchulavista@westmontliving.com
