At 106 years old, Herbert Stern isn’t just any senior citizen. And he said his path this old age was full of doing things that weren’t quite the right ones, but in the end, Stern smiles, turned out just right for him.

As the oldest living graduate of the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, Stern’s life is a tapestry of remarkable stories and achievements. But these days, he’s made a few adjustments. “I don’t go pheasant hunting anymore,” Stern said, chuckling. “I had to give it up when I turned 102. I’ve lost a lot of my strength.”

Despite needing a cane to walk, Stern still drives, shops, and even cooks two meals a day in his apartment at Falcons Landing senior living community in Potomac Falls, Virginia. Stern, who celebrated his 106th birthday on Christmas Eve, admits he’s surprised by his longevity. “I did everything I shouldn’t do,” he laughed.

Stern in 1941, standing at attention as a cadet at West Point. Courtesy of the Stern family

I smoked until 1969. I have been a social drinker since 1942 and still am. My preference is single malt scotch, but I have tried it all.”

A retired U.S. Army colonel, Stern graduated from West Point in 1941 and is the last living member of his class. “Not only that, I’m the only West Pointer to make it to 106,” he said. Stern’s military career is the stuff of legend. He recalls his role during World War II, commanding the 325th Field Artillery Battalion of the 84th Infantry Division in Europe. Stern’s unit was engaged in the brutal Battle of the Bulge.

“The Germans were nearby, so I picked up the battalion and moved it behind an infantry unit because we needed protection,” Stern remembered. “That night, the Germans took the area we had vacated. It actually could have been our elimination.” For his bravery, Stern received both the Silver Star and Legion of Merit.

After the war, Stern continued his service in various roles, including time at the French War College and as provost marshal in Bavaria. He later served as an adviser in Vietnam but was critical of the U.S. involvement. “It was a complete mistake to be there,” he said. “From the very beginning, it was obvious this was going to be a meat grinder.” Stern retired from the Army in 1968, having served 27 years.

Stern in 1965, as a colonel serving as chief of staff at the Army Infantry Training Center at Fort Jackson in South Carolina. Courtesy of the Stern family photo

Post-military life saw Stern return to Rockville to manage his father’s furniture store and later work in real estate. He enjoyed retirement, spending time hunting, fishing, and with family, until the loss of his wife, Rose, in 2015.

Rose and I had a great life together,” Stern said.

Reflecting on his life, Stern shares fond memories, including an unforgettable birthday during the Battle of the Bulge. “A countess who lived in the castle served mulled wine to the Americans and gave me a hot bath as a birthday present,” he recalled. “I hadn’t had a full bath in months. That was the best birthday I’ve ever had.”

These days, Stern enjoys reading history, sharing stories with neighbors, and spending time with his son and grandson. With a new goal in mind, Stern said, “To be 107. It’s been a great life. I feel good that I was able to make a contribution to our freedom. Not bad for a little country boy.”