By James Morley III | Saturday, 08 November 2025 01:04 PM EST
World War II veteran Irv Locker, one of the last surviving soldiers of the D-Day invasion, celebrated his 101st birthday this weekend while reflecting on the sacrifices of his generation. Appearing on “Saturday Report,” Locker, a U.S. Army staff sergeant in the 116th AAA Gun Battalion, recounted his experiences during the Normandy landings at age 19, the Battle of the Bulge, and the liberation of a Holocaust camp.
“Freedom is not free,” Locker stated, emphasizing the cost of victory. He acknowledged the bravery of those who were wounded or lost their lives, expressing gratitude for surviving the brutal campaigns. “I’m lucky to be alive after D-Day, the Battle of the Bulge, and helping liberate a Holocaust camp,” he added.
Locker described the chaos of landing on Normandy’s beaches, recalling how fellow soldiers urged, “On the beach, you’re a victim. Off the beach, you’re a warrior.” Despite his small stature—just five-foot-five—he admitted fearing drowning before reaching shore but pressed forward under fire.
Today, Locker dedicates time to educating students about wartime sacrifices, urging them to understand the struggles of past generations. “The kids have no idea,” he said. “They need to know what it was like and how lucky they are that we succeeded in war so they could be free.”
The segment concluded with birthday wishes for Locker and his wife of nearly 80 years, Bernice. “When you see a veteran, thank a veteran,” Locker urged. “Believe me, it’s well worth it.”
