MERRIMAC — Robert “Bob” Eastman, a World War II Coast Guard veteran who turned 102 on Saturday, May 9, was recognized as Merrimac’s oldest living resident during a ceremony at his home.
According to the Merrimac Council on Aging, Eastman was presented with the Boston Post Cane at his home in Merri Village on Friday, May 8. The Boston Post Cane presentation is part of a longstanding New England tradition that honors the oldest resident in participating communities.
The tradition began in 1909, when The Boston Post newspaper distributed about 700 canes to communities across New England so towns could recognize their oldest residents. The cane is topped with a 14-karat gold head inscribed, “Presented by The Boston Post to the oldest citizen of (name of town) — To Be Transmitted.”
Eastman was born in 1924 and raised in Haverhill. He has lived in Merrimac since 1962.
He served in the Coast Guard from August 1942 to November 1945 during World War II. During his service, he was stationed on the U.S.S. Wakefield, a transport ship, and spent much of his time off the coasts of Europe and Africa. Eastman was honorably discharged as a Seaman 1st Class.
Eastman and his late wife had five children, one of whom has passed away. He is also a grandfather, great-grandfather and great-great-grandfather.
The ceremony brought together Eastman’s children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, friends, neighbors, police officers, Select Board members, Senior Center representatives and members of the Veterans Alliance.
When asked how it feels to be 102, Eastman said, “I feel normal. It’s just nice to see all of the people. I didn’t know we had that many friends.”
“This is just such a great accomplishment and recognition for him. I think he has a few more years left in him,” said Eastman’s granddaughter, Donna Kolifrath. “It is truly amazing to see him still so independent, living on his own, cooking his own meals. He’s just amazing. He’s just my hero in every sense.”
Council on Aging Director Brienne Walsh said the Merrimac Council on Aging (COA) was honored to celebrate Eastman’s birthday and his recognition as the town’s oldest living resident.
“Not many residents receive the Boston Post Cane, and being able to bring this momentous and long-standing tradition to Bob’s door was a wonderful way to commemorate his place in Merrimac history,” Walsh said. “Bob is a testament to aging in place in his community with supportive resources and family assistance, and I am thrilled to have been able to participate in a wonderful morning with Bob, his family, friends, and neighbors.”
According to the Merrimac Council on Aging, Eastman was also asked throughout the day how someone makes it to 102 years old.
His answer: “Keep moving…and whiskey.”