Warren Steven Sandy, a La Mesa resident and World War II veteran, will turn 100 years old on Feb. 19.
His family, traveling from across the country, will gather at a rental home in La Mesa to celebrate a milestone that honors a century of life, decades of service, and the sacrifices of those who served during the war.
For Christina Sandy, Warren’s wife of 40 years, reaching this milestone carries deep meaning.
“Reaching 100 years old means everything to our family,” she said. “It’s a chance to honor his service and the sacrifices of all those who fought alongside him, including those who never made it home or returned with life-altering disabilities. Warren was diagnosed with PTSD 70 years after the war, which shows how lasting the impact of these experiences can be. We owe these men so much.”
Warren served with the 82nd Airborne Division during some of World War II’s most pivotal campaigns. According to his family, he participated in the Ardennes campaign and entered the war via a glider crash landing near Caen, France, on D-Day plus one.
“He trained as a parachutist, and the glider crash landing was intense,” Christina said.
“Even though his memory is limited now, the stories of his courage and the challenges he faced remain vivid in our family’s memory.”
His wartime experiences profoundly shaped the person he became after returning home.
“Before the war, he was adventurous and spirited,” Christina said. “Military service tested him in ways that changed his perspective and resilience. He carried those lessons into his civilian life, becoming a person of determination and generosity.”
Though dementia has affected his memory, Warren continues to enjoy simple pleasures, from spending time with family to going through old photos and talking about family and friends.
“He still takes a great picture,” Christina said with a laugh. “We call him the most interesting man in the world because of all the adventures he’s had.”
Family stories and shared memories have become the primary way his legacy is preserved.
“We talk about his life and service often,” she said, “so that even as his memory fades, the essence of his experiences remains alive.”
The family plans to celebrate Warren’s 100th birthday in La Mesa, honoring not only his military service but also his full life. Christina hopes the community sees him as more than a veteran.
“I want people to understand the price paid by all who served — not just those who fought, but those who endured lifelong challenges after returning,” she said. “Warren’s story is a reminder of courage, sacrifice, and the importance of remembering history.”
As Warren approaches his centennial, his family and community prepare to honor a life defined by service, resilience, and remembrance.
