World War II veteran, retired Philly firefighter celebrates 100th birthday

MERCHANTVILLE, New Jersey (WPVI) -- Bill Kinee, a World War II veteran and retired Philadelphia firefighter, was celebrated for a lifetime of service on his 100th birthday.

Kinee was born in Philadelphia and joined the Army when he was 18 years old. He became a projectionist, rolling films for military personnel.

After returning home, he worked with the Philadelphia Fire Department for over 30 years.

Then, he spent a few years at Methodist Hospital, which is now Jefferson Methodist Hospital in South Philadelphia.

He eventually settled in New Jersey and now lives in Collingswood.

Today, friends and family threw a 100th birthday party at the Merchantville Community Center, fit with firefighter-themed decorations.

He was also presented with the Camden County Military Service Medal by the Board of Commissioners.

Bill was also presented with a firefighting-themed cake with a bevy of candles to blow out. Ironically, once he extinguished each of their flames, the resulting smoke triggered the fire alarms.

It was a moment of serendipity that gave the whole room a laugh.

Watch the video above to hear more from Kinee himself.

RELATED: Philadelphia security guard's artwork earns display in City Hall