RICHFIELD, Ohio — Walter “Bud” Wisnieski planned to celebrate his 100th birthday on Friday, April 24, with parties, but they were canceled in light of the coronavirus pandemic.

That didn’t stop his friends at Richfield United Church of Christ from coming up with an alternate plan.

They planned a special birthday parade, called Bud’s Brigade, Saturday afternoon. Dozens of vehicles including fire trucks, police cars and antique vehicles got decked out in red, white and blue to drive past Wisnieski’s house, as their passengers waved American flags and balloons.

Birthday parade for 100-year-old WWII veteran in Richfield. Hannah Drown shares the joyous event. Leave your birthday messages in the comments. Posted by cleveland.com on Saturday, April 25, 2020

The patriotic theme payed homage to Wisnieski’s military service during World War II, where he served in the Army Air Corps in the Weather Reconnaissance Squadron.

“It feels great, it’s very flattering,” Wisnieski said. “I’ve been treated so well that I think I’ll try for 200.”

When asked what his secret is to becoming 100 years old, Wisnieski laughed.

“Be grateful, curious, positive and forgive. But most of all, have good ancestors," he said.