WATCH: US Airlines Celebrates World War Veteran's 102nd Birthday

Southwest Airlines recently made a wonderful tribute to Helen Marie Horvath, a World War II veteran, on her 102nd birthday. The airline shared a heartwarming post on Instagram, revealing their special birthday surprise for Horvath at the request of her son.

Unforgettable Salute to Helen Marie Horvath

When Horvath arrived in Saint Louis, she was greeted with joyous celebrations, including American flags, a crown, bubbles, happy birthday signs, and cheers. The elderly veteran, moved by the surprise, shared stories from her life with the airline staff. She reminisced about joining the military at the age of 21 and later receiving an Honorable Discharge for her valuable services.

Southwest Airlines, in a detailed post, shared glimpses of the surprise celebration. One photo showed the veteran, wearing a crown, seated in a wheelchair, surrounded by well-wishers holding balloons and party decorations. Two staff members proudly displayed the number 102 to mark her birthday. Additionally, a throwback photograph from Horvath's younger days was included in the post.

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A post shared by Southwest Airlines (@southwestair)

The caption expressed gratitude to Helen Marie for her service and commended the Saint Louis Station for creating a memorable birthday celebration. The post also provided insights into Horvath's military journey, mentioning her time at Fort Patrick Henry in Newport News, Virginia, where she served as a nurse's aide at the local hospital and also searched for submarines offshore using sonar. Rising to the rank of sergeant, she witnessed the end of the war in December 1945 and received an Honorable Discharge in January 1946 at Fort Des Moines, Iowa.

The internet responded with warmth to this heartfelt gesture, thanking Southwest Airlines for making Horvath's day special. Users expressed their appreciation for the airline celebrating and honouring the brave woman, with one person noting it as a sweet story and another expressing happiness about Southwest Airlines recognizing and commemorating a remarkable individual.

The comments on the post reflected the collective sentiment, describing the story as incredible and praising Horvath's fantastic appearance at 102. The internet collectively cheered for Helen, appreciating Southwest Airlines for bringing joy to her day with this touching celebration.