A U.S. Veteran Had Dreams of Skydiving for Years. He Finally Made It Happen to Mark His Milestone 100th Birthday (Exclusive)

A US veteran, Jimmy Hernandez, recently celebrated a remarkable milestone in a truly exhilarating way – by going skydiving on his 100th birthday. This exclusive event took place at SkyDance Skydiving in Davis, California, on August 29. Jimmy was accompanied by his son, Andrew, and grandson, Santiago, for this once-in-a-lifetime experience which marked a significant moment in his life.

Throughout his life, Jimmy had cherished the dream of skydiving and finally, he seized the opportunity to make it a reality on his centenary birthday. As a WWII US Navy veteran, the experience held deep emotional significance for Jimmy. His inspiration to take the leap came from watching former President George H. W. Bush embark on a similar adventure. Jimmy shared with PEOPLE, “I thought that this could be my last day, but if so, I have lived a full life.”

Despite feeling a mix of emotions before the jump, Jimmy expressed gratitude for the support of his extended family and friends who gathered to witness this remarkable feat. While he may not have had a perfect landing, the love and presence of his loved ones made the experience truly special for him. The event was a testament to the strong bonds and cherished moments that Jimmy has created with his family over the years.

His grandson Santiago described the experience as fulfilling, highlighting the commitment they all shared in making the jump a reality. Likewise, Andrew expressed his pride in being part of this memorable occasion, reflecting the importance of family values instilled by Jimmy. Witnessing three generations come together for such an adventure was a heartwarming moment for all involved.

Born in 1925, Jimmy’s life has been marked by service, sacrifice, and a deep commitment to his family. Having served in the Pacific during WWII, he returned to California after the war and raised a large family of 12 children. Today, his family boasts over 120 descendants, a testament to the love and legacy he has built over the years.

When asked about the key lessons he imparts to his family, Jimmy emphasized the values of hard work, clean living, respect for others, and helping those in need. His longevity secret, as he shares, lies in his strong work ethic even after retirement, continuing to stay active and involved in meaningful activities with his loved ones.

The celebration of Jimmy’s 100th birthday through skydiving not only marked a personal achievement but also symbolized the enduring spirit of a veteran who has lived a full and inspiring life. His story serves as a reminder of the importance of family, love, and embracing new experiences at any age.

As Jimmy looks back on a century of memories, his journey continues to inspire and uplift those around him. His message of love, resilience, and hard work resonates with all who have had the privilege of witnessing his extraordinary milestone.