ANKENY, Iowa — World War II veteran Hal Hunnell celebrated his 100th birthday on Halloween with friends and family.
Hal, who served in the Pacific during his time in the armed forces, celebrated at the Albaugh Family Senior Community Center in Ankeny on Thursday.
He said he enjoyed his service most of the time, but the best part was getting out.
When asked what the secret to a long life was, Hal kept it simple: "Bud Light and a little milk now and then."
Family from Des Moines, Oregon, Georgia and even Alaska were all in attendance. Hal also made note of his eye doctor from the Veterans Administration, his "drinking friends" and who he called his lady friend.
The birthday included a band and Halloween party.
When discussing how he celebrates birthdays however, Hal said he just tries to stay alive.
His favorite part about having family in for his birthday is that they're going to stay awhile as he says the celebration will last until Sunday.