Chicago area World War II veteran gets back on the horse for 101st birthday

A suburban World War II Navy veteran decided to celebrate a milestone on land, proving if he can do it, so can you.

He’s the subject of this week’s Good News Guarantee.

‘I’m in pretty good shape'

Al gets back on the horse:

It’s hard to catch up with Al Wend of southwest suburban Lemont.

The WWII Navy veteran never stops moving. 

"I think I'm in pretty good shape for an old man," said Al. 

A suburban World War II Navy veteran decided to celebrate a milestone on land, proving if he can do it, so can you.

For his 101st birthday, Al wanted to get back on the horse, literally.   

"I think they were a little bit surprised that a guy my age was willing to ride on a horse. But I really enjoyed it," he added.

'Age has no limit'

Defying age:

The equine therapy group Bravehearts made it possible. 

"That's the true definition of age has no limit. You’re able to do what you can and whatever you put your mind to," said Giovanni Paz, the Life Enrichment Director at StoryPoint Assisted Living in Bolingbrook.

Giovanni helped set up the ride. It appears it won’t be Al’s last.   

"My father was 101 years old when he passed away and my oldest brother Milton was 104," Al said. "So I have to try to beat his record of 104."

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