Louisville WWII veteran gets surprise party for 102nd birthday

MIDDLETOWN, Ky. —A surprise birthday celebration was held today for James "Ralph" Cochran, a World War II veteran, at his assisted living facility in Middletown.

Cochran, who turned 102, was born on January 26, 1923, in Lynnville, Kentucky, and spent most of his life in Hopkinsville before moving to Louisville for health reasons.

Despite his age, Cochran remains active and mentally sharp, even continuing to drive.

He credits his family, especially his daughter, for their support.

"I have a smart daughter here," said Cochran. "And I always say people who have daughters when they get old are fortunate because they do everything for you."