Harold West is the latest local to turn 100, after his wife Eunice reached that milestone in July [Eunice turns 100].

As a member of the Kiama and Jamberoo RSL Sub-Branch since 1946, Harold and Eunice have celebrated his milestone today with fellow members where he was presented with a Certificate of Appreciation from the National RSL for his 75 years of service.

 RSL member and a friend of Harold’s for over twelve years, Gary McKay, says he and Eunice would put in huge efforts leading up to Anzac Day every year up until just six years ago.

“Harold reflects service and loyalty. He is a fantastic man who is one of the selfless types of people who always thinks of others before himself,” Gary says.

Born and raised in Sydney, Harold has always been an active member of the community, from partaking in boy scouts to joining the army and then the RSL. He was recognised for his community service in 2007 with an Order of Australia.

Harold was an Army engineer in WW2 where he says he built bridges and houses.

“If I had to be in the war, I couldn’t have been anywhere better and I was very thankful for that. I learnt a lot of things in engineering and made many friends in pretty desperate circumstances,” Harold says.

It was when he got back from the War after nearly five years, he met Eunice and resumed his career as a Certified Practising Accountant.

Harold and Eunice with other RSL members

“Eunice and I got on quite well and just clicked. We got married in 1949, built a house in Sydney, and had three daughters. Now we have seven grandchildren and three great grandchildren. My family life has worked out pretty well,” Harold says.

At 100 years old, Harold says his hobbies now include playing on the computer at his Kiama Downs home, but as a young man, he was a keen bushwalker where he would wander all over the Blue Mountains.

 “After the War, the RSL itself became a bit of a hobby. We used to have regular meetings and a glass of beer. It was just a group of friends, and this social activity occupied my time when I wasn’t working.”

Harold says he has always lived an honest life, and his tip if you want to be old, don’t keep secrets!

He may be one of the last people to have received a letter from the Queen with her congratulations.