SAN JOSE, Calif. -- It’s always a joy to visit the downtown San Jose Fire Museum, but being there for retired Fire Capt. Sam Seibert’s birthday celebration was really something special.

Seibert turned 105 on Monday, and he was the guest of honor at a party at the Market Street firehouse-turned-museum on Tuesday. He sat upon a throne, was serenaded by retired firefighter Jim True and blew out the three candles on his chocolate birthday cake. (Had there been 105, it might have set off some alarms.)

Seibert acknowledged that few people have lived to his age and enjoyed the life that he has, especially working as a firefighter and helping to create the San Jose Fire Museum, which has many items he contributed and includes a gallery in its lobby devoted to him.

“This fire department is very special to everyone who is in this building,” he said. “Most people came here because they want to see me kick the bucket, but I’m not going for another week or two,” he joked. “It’s a pleasure to be in this organization.

John McMillan, another retired firefighter who is president of the museum, said, “We are so lucky to have Sam in our life. He told me and some other friends his goal was 105. But I predict right now we can start planning for 110.”

Seibert may already be the oldest living firefighter in the United States, following the death in June of New Jersey native Victor Dransfield at age 110.

McMillan said Seibert looks better than he has in years and chalked that up in part to the people who look after him. But some of Seibert’s secrets to longevity were revealed at the party: He recommends not sitting around too much and says drinking too much water will rust your pipes. “He drinks beer and soda,” McMillan said with a laugh.

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