In a world where reaching a century is a remarkable feat, Louis Tanzer stands out not just for his age but for the life he’s led. Celebrating his 105th birthday on December 25, Tanzer is believed to hold the title of the oldest living Marine in the United States. His milestone was marked with a festive gathering on December 26 in Beverly, Massachusetts, surrounded by family, friends, and dignitaries.
A representative from the office of Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey presented Tanzer with a commendation. In his typical humorous fashion, Tanzer joked, “Will that reduce my taxes?” His humor and positive outlook are cited as key to his longevity.
Born in Peabody, Massachusetts in 1920, Tanzer’s early life was shaped by the hardships of the Great Depression. His family, who were Jewish immigrants from Russia and Romania, faced economic challenges, especially after his father’s death. Despite days of hunger, Tanzer recalls, “The neighbors, some of them had big gardens. We used to raid them to get an apple or a pear.”
Life Before and During the War
Graduating from Peabody High School in 1938, Tanzer was initially set on joining the Navy when the U.S. entered World War II in 1941. However, weighing just 121 pounds, he exceeded the Navy’s weight limit but met the Marine Corps’ requirement by a single pound.
With his mother being deaf and dependent on him, Tanzer could have deferred from military service. Yet, following his brother’s footsteps and prompted by his conscience, he enlisted in 1942. Stationed in the South Pacific with the 4th Marine Aircraft Wing, Tanzer rose to the rank of staff sergeant. He recalls the perils of war and the battles he witnessed, saying, “There were bloody battles.”
“They tried to sink us, but I lived through that all right. … I don’t know if you get fearless, but your tour of duty is just an ordinary thing once you’re out there and in danger.”
Post-War Life
After the war, Tanzer returned to Peabody and worked in tannery factories until retirement. He married Roslyn Fliegel in 1951, with whom he had two children. The family settled in Beverly by 1960, and Tanzer and his wife traveled extensively post-retirement.
Despite his age, Tanzer maintains relatively good health. Diagnosed with COPD in his 80s, his daughter Gail notes that he has managed without respiratory aids. “He’s a specimen,” she remarked.
Community Recognition
The celebration of Tanzer’s 105th birthday was a community affair. Friends Bridget and David Ball helped organize the event, resulting in over 1,000 birthday cards from across the country. Tanzer also received challenge coins and a special greeting from New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft.
“We just wanted to honor him and get him 105 cards for his birthday,” Bridget Ball said. “It’s turned into this amazing thing, and he deserves it. He’s a very humble man.”
Efforts are underway to honor Tanzer further, with the Balls working on securing a plaque for him in Beverly. They even reached out to national organizations for recognition, with responses from the Gary Sinise Foundation and the Navy SEAL Museum.
When asked about his secret to longevity, Tanzer wittily responded, “Don’t eat,” recalling the tough times during the Depression.
