The saying better late than never certainly rang true for World War II veteran Kenny Eye, who, after six and a half decades, is finally getting the medals he earned while in service, according to a feature on the Navy Times.

The 88-year-old served as a mechanic in a Navy air transport squad, and also flew planes in the South Pacific. He knew about his decorations and accolades before he was discharged, but never got around to getting them as he was in a hurry to go home to Western Kansas.

In attendance during the ceremony held last Wednesday were about 150 of Eye’s friends and family, as well as Rep. Jerry Moran of Hays. Among the decorations he received were a World War II Victory Medal, a medal for participation in the Asiatic-Pacific campaign, and a good conduct medal.