At 100, WWII veteran celebrates a life of service aboard Battleship New Jersey.

John 'Johnny Q' Quinesso Sr. marked his 100th birthday aboard the Battleship New Jersey, where he has volunteered as a tour guide for more than 20 years after serving in the South Pacific during World War II.

John "Johnny Q" Quinesso Sr. celebrated his 100th birthday aboard the Battleship New Jersey, surrounded by family, friends and museum staff. The World War II navy veteran served three years in the South Pacific and later spent decades sharing his experiences with visitors. He has been a volunteer tour guide at the Battleship New Jersey Museum for more than 20 years. The milestone included a luncheon and a recognition ceremony on the ship. Key details: - The celebration was held on Feb. 5, 2026, while his actual birthday is Jan. 24. - Quinesso joined the Navy in 1943 at age 19 and served as a Radioman 2nd Class aboard the LSM-302. - His wartime service took him to Wake Island, Guam, Okinawa and Saipan, and he recalled receiving word of Japan's surrender while on duty. - After the war he worked 43 years as an IRS agent and later began volunteering when the Battleship New Jersey reopened as a museum in 2001. - During the recent ceremony he received New Jersey's Distinguished Service Medal, and museum leadership noted the importance of veterans' firsthand stories as that generation grows smaller. Summary: The ceremony honored Quinesso's military service and long-running role as an educator at the museum, emphasizing his efforts to explain the costs of freedom to visitors. His recognition included the state's Distinguished Service Medal and continued public engagement. Undetermined at this time.