At 105-years-old, everyone wants to know how Raymond Chavez has managed age so gracefully.
"I don't drink, I don't smoke," said Chavez. "I exercise, I'm a member of a fitness club I go to two times a week. And, there's other things I do, that I can't remember," he laughed.
Chavez is the oldest surviving veteran of the attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941. He has been a resident of Poway for most of his life.
On Thursday, the Poway Postal Service threw a birthday celebration to honor Chavez.
Dozens of people showed up to watch the post office give Chavez a plaque displaying stamps in his honor. He was also given a giant birthday card signed by 105 postal workers, a tribute to his age. Cake was served to everyone as well.
Organizers gave speeches, calling Chavez the national treasure of Poway. They added there are plans to make a public statue in his honor.
"What a surprise to see all of my friends here," said Chavez. "I'm very proud. It's a day I'll never forget."
