(WWJ) A Metro Detroit couple is doing something today that less than one percent of Americans will ever achieve: They're celebrating 75 years of marriage.
WWJ Newsradio 950's Pat Vitale had the pleasure of speaking with Carrie and Lawrence Perry, who grew up in a Ypsilanti neighborhood.
They were elementary school, and then high school classmates.
Lawrence said he can distinctly remember thinking: Wow, that gal is cute!
"When I saw her and the way she walked...beautiful lady, young lady. And I just knew that she's just special, absolutely special," Lawrence said.
They eventually got serious, going steady in the 12th grade — then married on December 2, 1950.
Lawrence was a student at Michigan State University, but was soon sent off to the Korean War for over a year.
Their love endured the separation, having three children.
They now have five grandchildren and four great grandkids, and enjoy time with their family.
Vitale had to ask the big question: What's the secret to making it work for so long?
"Not to get too angry," Lawrence said.
"Talk it out," Carrie added. "You gotta talk; keep the line of communication open...You gotta talk. That's number one."
"That's it! Absolutely," Lawrence agreed.
Seventy-five years is traditionally the diamond anniversary, but 95-year-old Lawrence and 94-year-old Carrie said that being together is the only gift they need.