WA’s oldest living WWII veteran celebrates 100th birthday with his Lions community
There are few milestones more remarkable than turning 100. For Jack Le Cras, the occasion is made even more extraordinary by a lifetime dedicated to serving his country and his community.
The Perth identity and World War II veteran celebrated his 100th birthday on 1 September, surrounded by family, friends, fellow Lions, veterans and members of the wider community at a special morning tea hosted by the Lions Club of Whitford at Bunnings Joondalup.
Lion Jack Le Cras turns 100.
Jack is believed to be the oldest living World War II veteran in Western Australia and was just 19 years old when he witnessed one of the most significant moments in modern history.
On 2 September 1945, Jack was aboard the USS Missouri in Tokyo Bay as Japan formally surrendered, bringing the Second World War to an end. He was one of three sailors from HMAS Bataan selected to ferry Australia’s senior military representatives to the battleship for the historic ceremony.
More than eight decades later, Jack continues to embody a spirit of service.
He has been a member of Lions for 49 years and remains an active member of the Lions Club of Whitford, where he currently serves as Acting Treasurer. His contribution to the club and the wider community has been part of a lifetime of volunteering, which has also included service with the Wanneroo RSL Sub-Branch and the Naval Association of Western Australia.
For Jack, staying involved and helping others has remained a way of life.
Jack’s approach to life is refreshingly simple. He credits staying active, following his doctor’s advice, remaining involved in the community and keeping his mind engaged as important to his longevity.
The birthday celebration was a fitting tribute to a man who has spent much of his life showing up for others.
Lions Club of Whitford President Derek Best said Jack’s remarkable age was only part of what made the milestone worth celebrating.
“What strikes you about Jack isn’t just his age or the incredible things he has done, it’s how present he still is. He shows up, he helps out, and he’s been doing that for Whitford Lions Club for 49 years,” Derek said.
“Today is about the whole community getting to say thank you, the way he’s quietly said ‘yes’ to helping others for decades.”
From serving his country as a young sailor to dedicating almost five decades to Lions and his local community, Jack’s story is one of extraordinary service, commitment and continued involvement.
And at 100 years young, he shows no signs of slowing down.
