This Fourth of July marks a historic milestone as America celebrates its 250th birthday. Across the country, fireworks will light the sky, families will gather for cookouts, swimming pools will be full, American flags will wave proudly, and traditions like baseball and apple pie will once again remind us of what makes this nation special.
But beneath the celebration is something even more important to remember. The freedoms we enjoy today were not easily won. They were secured through sacrifice, hardship, and the courage of generations who answered the call to serve.
This year, Grace Outdoor Advertising chose to honor America’s 250th anniversary by celebrating three remarkable men: Charles Shealy, Bruce Cook, and Vernon Brantly. Each is more than 100 years old. Each served our country during World War II. Each returned home after the war to build a life, raise families, and contribute to their communities. These men, along with millions of others, helped preserve the American dream for future generations.
Charles Shealy is 103 years old. He was born in Batesburg-Leesville, South Carolina, and now lives in West Columbia. In 1942, at just 19 years old, he joined the Army Air Corps and was deployed to the Western Pacific. Serving as a tail gunner aboard a B-25 bomber, Charles fought in the Pacific against Japan. After the war, he returned home and built a career in electronics with Westinghouse Appliances. When asked to share his advice for younger generations, Charles simply said, “Stay busy.”
Bruce Cook is 100 years old. Born in the small town of Swansea, South Carolina, he also now resides in West Columbia. Bruce joined the Army Air Corps in 1943 and was deployed to England after completing basic training. As a belly gunner aboard a B-17 Flying Fortress, he flew 35 combat missions while still only 18 years old. In April 2026, France awarded Bruce the Legion d’honneur, the nation’s highest military honor, in recognition of his service in the liberation of France during World War II. When asked what advice he would give, Bruce replied, “Trust in Jesus.”
Vernon Brantly, now 102 years old, was born in Sturgis, Kentucky, and currently lives in Columbia, South Carolina. He enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1943 and was deployed to France. Serving in an anti-tank infantry unit, Vernon fought against German forces outside Bastogne, Belgium, during one of the most difficult campaigns of the war. After returning home, he built a successful career as a salesman in the food industry.
These three men are now all over 100 years old, yet they continue to inspire with their humility, strength, and wisdom. As teenagers and young adults, they set aside their own futures to serve a cause greater than themselves. They fought not only for America but also to defeat tyranny and defend freedom around the world.
Charles, Bruce, and Vernon represent millions of Americans whose sacrifices made the last 250 years of our nation’s story possible. As we celebrate Independence Day this year, may we enjoy the traditions we love, but may we also pause to remember those who preserved the freedoms we often take for granted.
From all of us at Grace Outdoor Advertising, we wish you and your family a safe, joyful, and meaningful Fourth of July. Happy 250th Birthday, America.