Dozens of people gathered Sunday in Orange County to celebrate a major milestone in a local World War II veteran’s life. Odell Barbe is turning 100 years old.

Barbe said he didn’t really feel that old until recently.  

“I’m beginning to feel it now,” said Barbe.

But for Barbe, the milestone of turning a century old is even more amazing when you consider a particularly close call the Staff Sergeant had during the war.

When Barbe’s 101st Airborne Division glider-parachute regiment was landing right into enemy territory, they faced heavy fire from the Germans. One of those bullets went through his backpack and stopped just short of hitting him – because the bullet hit the razor in his shaving case.

“Stopped the rest of that shrapnel. I know how that is because I was wounded by mortar shrapnel in the Korean War. That stopped just short of the bone otherwise I could’ve lost my leg,” said Sergeant First Class Lee Horn.  

Fellow veterans, friends and family all spoke at Barbe’s birthday reception, all praising him for his service and bravery.

“One of our outstanding veterans from World War II,” said Horn.

“I never expected anything like this,” said Barbe.

Barbe’s wife of 68 years could not be at his birthday party due to her health.  But Barbe’s family says Barbe still takes care of her every day, so she can still live at home with him instead of living somewhere else for care.

“Very unique to have a gentleman at 100 years old, but to have a World War II vet who saw some heavy action, and survived it – it’s a treasure.  He’s a very special person,” said veteran’s supporter Cathy Haynes.