-by Nakasia Logan

A century of life is more than just a number; it’s a story of resilience, history, and lessons carried through generations.

Today, we mark a rare and remarkable milestone, honouring a World War II veteran—a man whose years reflect not only time passed, but a legacy shaped by service, perseverance, and purpose.

“This is just a gift of God. I always tell people that I’m I’m lucky to have lived so long. I’m lucky to have six children, all alive,” Samuels told NCN News.

Yesterday, he marked the milestone with family, friends and community leaders at his home in Mc Doom. Today, the celebrations continued with a visit from the Guyana Veterans Legion, showing appreciation for his service as a World War Two veteran. The Ministry of Human Services and Social Security was also present.

Samuel served as a signaler in the Royal Corps of Signals, where he worked as a dedicated Communications Specialist in the British forces. Looking back, Samuel, says that even though he was an only child and lived in extreme poverty, he has had a fulfilling and contented life overall.

“The experience that I experienced, the experiences, the opportunities that I have had in life. I hadn’t a triumphant life. I did not reach the pinnacle, I was not a Bob Marley. I did not come and meet my father with an acre of land and develop it into 60 acres, but I lived a long life,” he said.

His advice to family, friends and the younger generation is to acquire assets in life. However, he noted that assets are not about financial wealth, but about self development.

“Money is not assets. I think the self development is better than money, the qualities you have, what’s better to have must have these qualities and you can endure. I’m content. That is it. I’m not striving for anything. I’m not striving to have millions of dollars. I’m striving to have food, health. That sort of thing. Those are my assets. Enjoy life, no matter what comes,” he explained.

Born in March 22, 1926 on the island of Leguan in Essequibo, Mr. Samuels enlisted in the Army in 1943 and served for three and a half years before being demobilized, officially returning to civilian life.