Charles Coolidge, the Chattanooga native who was awarded the Medal of Honor for his meritorious service in World War II and for whom Coolidge Park is named, will turn 90 years old on Thursday.
Friends and family will honor him with a celebration at the riverfront park named for him on Saturday.
Coolidge, the co-owner of Chattanooga Printing and Engraving, still works every day and, with his scooter chair and his “honey” of a Chrysler van, says he goes practically wherever he wants.
“I wouldn’t be happy sitting at home,” he said. “I have a nice house [on Signal Mountain] overlooking the river and Baylor School and looking at Lookout Mountain. Even though I don’t walk, [God’s] provided me with other ways.”
With the exception of the multiple sclerosis that has somewhat limited Coolidge’s mobility, he is in good health and has a clear memory.