D-DAY VETERAN’S SECRET OF LONG LIFE... AVOID VEG
D-DAY veteran Denzil Cooper has reached the ripe old age of 101 and he thinks his longevity may be down to one thing... avoiding vegetables.
The pensioner, who piloted a glider during the Normandy landings, celebrated the milestone at Bishops Manor care home, Sutton Coldfield, on April 8.
Mr Cooper was born in Essex in 1922, but moved to Birmingham with his family as a three-year-old.
On D-Day, Staff Sergeant Cooper piloted a Horsa Glider over Normandy
during Operation Mallard. He is the last remaining comrade from 300 of his regiment.
After the war, he married Joan and they spent 68 years together. He has three daughters, nine grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren – a 15th’s on the way.
Mr Copper said: “My secret to a living a long life is down to the fact I never smoked, drank very little alcohol, but I have enjoyed an unhealthy diet with as little veggies as possible. A healthy diet is overrated. I also think remaining balanced and calm in the face of adversity has been a contributory factor to my long and happy life.”
At Bishops Manor, the war veteran enjoys sharing memories of his military career, as well as taking part in activities such as singing and dancing.
To celebrate the big day, staff decorated the bistro with balloons and banners. The home’s chef baked a special birthday cake for everyone to enjoy.
Sarah Diamond, Bishops Manor general manager, said: “Denzil is a vibrant and much-loved resident here at Bishops Manor, and it was fantastic to help him celebrate this incredible milestone.
“Here at Bishops Manor, everything we do is focused on our ethos of ensuring residents live active and fulfilling lives, so we always like to celebrate important milestones – and Denzil’s 101st birthday was no exception. It was lovely to raise a glass together on his special day.”