Retired Sgt. Victor W. Butler is asking for birthday cards ahead of his 100th birthday to celebrate the milestone. The Rhode Island native, served as one of the Tuskegee Airmen from 1941 to 1946, will turn 100 on May 21. Butler is believed to be one of last members of the airmen that’s still alive according to CBS 42.

Although his dream to become a pilot didn’t workout, Butler was among the brave Tuskegee Airmen, known as the “The Red Tails,” who served between 1940 and 1948. During his time as aircraft mechanic, Butler worked on some of the legendary planes used by Black pilots.

Butler loved being a part of history, but segregation posed an issue for Black soldiers in Tuskegee, Alabama during his era.

“Being in Tuskegee, Alabama, it wasn’t very acceptable to white people for Black soldiers to be walking around,” he told WJAR.

Before his 100th birthday, Butler’s request has shared all across the country, having already got over 500 cards, CBS 42 reported. The cards have brought the veteran so much joy.

“Oh, I’ll read every one of them,” he claimed.

“What’s special about it? It’s special just sitting and reading them,” Butler added. “They all have nice letters with them. Some of them have been very inspiring. It makes me feel great.”

He was recognized by the Rhode Island House of Representatives for his contributions as a family man and businessman.

“Mr. Butler has always been a hard-working man who always strived tirelessly to provide for his family and loved ones,” a resolution from the Rhode Island House of Representatives read. “Mr. Butler was the first African-American to work for Brown and Sharpe and worked for the company for 34 years. Mr. Butler was also a successful businessman who owned and operated the Victor Butler Automatic Screw Machine Repair company for 18 years.”

Butler is the oldest of five children, eight grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren, and three great-great grandchildren.

“Just enjoy life as it is. Be thankful,” he said. “I’m thankful that I have a nice wife, and a nice home to live in.”

Butler is asking for birthday cards be mailed to the following address:

Victor W. Butler

C/O Gary Butler

P.O. Box. 3523

Cranston, RI 02910

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