She served her country during World War II, and turned 104 on Tuesday

[Elderberry]

American Military News by  Steven Mayer 10/31/2019

They used to say, “Loose lips sink ships,” and Elizabeth “Betty” Petrie still lives by those words.

A lieutenant junior grade in the U.S. Navy women’s auxiliary, Petrie worked in highly classified military communications during World War II, and Tuesday on the occasion of her 104th birthday, she still wouldn’t breathe a word about the details of her work.

“I can’t tell you anything,” Petrie said, raising her hands, smiling.

The World War II veteran, who was born in 1915 and enlisted in the WAVES in 1942, celebrated her 104th birthday at Brookdale Riverwalk assisted living center in southwest Bakersfield. And talk about a party.

There were reporters and news cameras, political luminaries, members of the military and dozens of her fellow residents present to honor her and thank her for her service.

“I was completely surprised,” she said. “But pleasantly surprised.”

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