Stockton World War II veteran reflects on 101 years of life

Marvin Lee Lykins celebrated his 101th birthday with a party at his home in Oakmont of Brookside on Wednesday, Jan. 17 .

"He's kind, one of the kindest people I know, and thoughtful," said Lykins ' daughter, Diana Larson .

Lykins was born on Jan. 20, 1923 , in Oklahoma , an only child to Bessie Keeler .

He joined the U.S. Army as a medical technician in 1943 during World War II .

Lykins says he has learned to see the good in people and not be judgmental.

"Learn to like people. I used prejudice against people for their color, their race, their attitude," he said.

"I did my best. I can't cure everybody. I tried, but I don't expect to.".