Photo of the Week - Happy 100th Birthday, Harold Tate

James Sanders Jr.

May 19, 2015

State Senator James Sanders (D-Rochdale) paid tribute to Jamaica resident Harold Tate, who turned 100 years old on May 16, by presenting him with a certificate of recognition in celebration of his 100 years of life and contributions to the community.



Tate is a WWII Army veteran, earning the following distinctions: Philippines Liberation Ribbon World War 1 Victory Medal, American Service Medal, Asiatic Pacific Service Medal and Good Conduct Medal. He spent time in the NYPD, becoming the first African- American Sargent with the 32nd Precinct in Harlem. He was also a U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary working on boat docked in Brooklyn and Long Island, and at one time owned his own business - Tate's Liquor Store - in Brooklyn.

More than a dozen family members took part in Tate's centennial celebration and Senator Sanders was honored to be a part of it all, even though Tate would not share the secret of his longevity. "Thank you for inviting me into your home and allowing me to share this special day with you," Sanders said.