Boca Raton: Harold Terens and Jeanne Swerlin, both American citizens, are gearing up for a remarkable chapter in their lives: marriage at ages 100 and 96, respectively, set against the backdrop of France, where Terens served during World War II.
Terens, a US Air Force veteran, will be honored on June 6 at an event commemorating the 80th anniversary of the D-Day landings in Normandy, a pivotal moment in history. Following this tribute, he and Swerlin will tie the knot in Carentan-les-Marais, near the historic beaches where thousands of soldiers fought and fell during the Allied invasion in 1944. The ceremony will be overseen by the town’s mayor.
Describing their love story as unparalleled, Terens emphasizes the depth of their connection, evident in their affectionate gestures and lively interactions during a recent interview at Swerlin’s home in Boca Raton, Florida.
Terens’s remarkable journey began when he enlisted in response to the attack on Pearl Harbor at the age of 18. Serving as an expert in Morse code aboard a ship bound for England, he was later stationed in Normandy, where he witnessed the sacrifices made by his comrades.
Following the Normandy operation, Terens volunteered for a clandestine mission that took him through various locations, including Soviet Ukraine, on a vital supply route for US aircraft.
Reflecting on his wartime experiences and subsequent life events, including the loss of his wife of 70 years, Terens acknowledges the challenges he faced but also the unexpected blessings that came his way. His encounter with Swerlin, a fellow widow, marked a turning point, leading to a blossoming romance and their impending marriage.
Excited about their upcoming nuptials and the opportunity to revisit France, where he was previously honored with the Legion of Honor, Terens considers himself incredibly fortunate. Surrounded by loved ones, the couple will exchange vows, symbolizing a new chapter filled with love and happiness.
At 100 years old, Terens reflects on his journey with gratitude, considering himself to be among the luckiest individuals alive.
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