At 102, female WWII veteran keeps doing good deeds

At 102, female WWII veteran keeps doing good deeds

Bea Abrams Cohen has worked for more than seven decades supporting philanthropic organizations and the U.S. military.

By Ann M. Simmons
Los Angeles Times
April 30, 2012

It's all about "mitzvah," said Bea Abrams Cohen as she sought to explain one possible secret to her longevity. The meanings of the Hebrew word include an act of human kindness or a good deed. That's what Cohen, age 102, has spent a lifetime doing.

"Pay back. It works," said the chatty centenarian, who served her country during World War II and has worked for more than seven decades supporting the U.S. military and philanthropic organizations.

A resident of Westchester, Cohen is believed to be California's oldest female veteran, according to the California Department of Veterans Affairs. She was recently recognized at a state Capitol celebration during Women's Military History Week honoring the achievements of women in the armed forces.

"I don't want anyone to ever forget our veterans," Cohen said. "They are our heroes."
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