BLACK MOUNTAIN, N.C. — The oldest living female veteran in North Carolina celebrated a milestone birthday Friday, as Bernice Buchin Liverett turned 105 years old on Jan. 12.
Born Jan. 12, 1919, Liverett joined the Army when she was just 25 years old. The Rochester, New York, native, worked in food service and medical transportation at Camp Myles Standish during World War II and achieved the rank of sergeant. One of her primary roles was to transport wounded soldiers to the hospital upon arrival in Boston. She was honorably discharged in 1946 and soon thereafter married Buford Liverett, a Navy veteran.
The couple moved to North Carolina in 1948. She has two daughters, four grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.
“One of the best and proudest days of my life was when I joined the Army. I was able to serve my country and help people. I was happy to do my part,” Liverett said.
North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper presented Liverett with a certificate celebrating her milestone birthday.
"The strong men and women of her generation invested decades of aspiration, diligence, and devotion in making a better state and country, and we are deeply grateful," Cooper said in a statement.
An avid baker, Liverett was known for her sweet treats that were often given to family and friends. In October 2022, she received an honorary degree of culinary arts from AB Technical Community College, making her lifelong wish of earning a college degree come true.
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