ATLANTA — A former 11Alive employee celebrated his milestone birthday in style. His son said on his birthday; he flew over in a helicopter over the station he helped build.
Russell Artz, who was a former chief engineer at the station between 1974 and 1977, turned 100 on Saturday, Feb. 3.
He is also a World War II Marine veteran before his tenure with 11Alive, according to his son. His service took him to Hawaii and Paris Island and almost to Pearl Harbor after the attack.
Artz then received a broadcasting degree from Temple University, where he worked with late popular TV radio host Dick Clark for a few years. He then focused on building TV stations around the country and building mobile trucks, his son told 11Alive.
The former engineer also built a device over Peachtree Plaza helping transmit stories and building new technology across the metro.
His son added as he returns to 100, he is alert and communicates well with everyone. Checkout photos of his flyover below.
World War II veteran, former 11Alive employee celebrates 100th birthday in style
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