Legendary Marine Celebrates his 97th Birthday

COLUMBIA, S.C. (WOLO) – One of the first African American Marines is celebrating his  97th birthday on Monday in the midlands.

“I’ve just seen so much happen in 97 years, I’m happy that I can breathe to tell it ,” Deacon James Knotts said laughing.

Knotts has that same infectious laugh and smile he had at 24-years-old when he was first drafted into the Marines. Knotts was apart of the first group of African American Marines that trained in the 1940’s.

“Before ’42 now, there weren’t any black Marines, the rule was to put black people in the Marines happened in 1942.”

Throughout his home are medals of honor and even a letter from president Barack Obama. Knotts love for the Marine Corps shows and continues to shine here in the Palmetto state.

“For the last ten years I’ve been considered the oldest marine in south Carolina, I cut the cake and give it to the young guys,” Knotss said.

Although there was a lot of segregation during his years of service, Knotts said  no matter what their differences were, they all had one common goal.

“Live or die for you country, ” Knotts said. “Whatever happens, you hope you get back home, but if you don’t that’s it.”

Throughout his 97 years on earth, Knotts said the best thing he has witnessed is what some people take for granted.
“The greatest thing I’ve seen is white and black people unite how they are now,” Knotts said.

Knotts shared his secret to living a long and healthy life.
“Eat plenty and attend to your own business,” Knotts said laughing.

Knotts will be celebrating his birthday with family.