The bride is ninety-seven years old. The bridegroom is ninety-eight. The couple has been married for 77 years.

They were finally able to relive some very wonderful wedding memories that they missed out on all

those years ago, thanks to some very special people who helped them celebrate their latest anniversary.

The caregivers for the elderly couple in their Oelwein, Iowa home, the St. Croix Hospice team, have grown to see the Kings as members of the family.

Their caregivers wanted to do something special to mark the approaching significant anniversary, and since they were somewhat familiar with the couple’s background, they devised the ideal scheme.

The world was a very different place on September 16, 1944, when Frankie and Royce King exchanged vows.

With World War II dragging on, America and its allies were resolutely fighting the Axis Powers. Royce was in the U.S. Air Force,

waiting for final instructions to ship out, but he was determined to get married to Frankie, his high school sweetheart, before being sent overseas.

The little, plain church ceremony had few bells and whistles. Frankie wore a suit, not a lace gown.

No photographer was present to capture the vows.

After a span of two days, Royce departed to commence his responsibilities as a carrier pilot, following a routine flight path that passed across the Himalayas.

Frankie and Royce’s life together has more than made up for the lack of grandeur of their wedding.

After raising two children, four grandchildren, and numerous great-grandchildren, the Kings are still happily married.

Their lifetime of spreading generosity throughout their community is only surpassed by the affection they have for one another.

The St. Croix team went all out for the anniversary celebrations. A staff member escorted Frankie under a flower-covered archway to where Royce,

dressed in full Air Force attire, was waiting for her. While another staff member took photo after photo, one played Big Band era songs on his sax.

Photographer Hilary Michelson wrote on Facebook, ‘Absolutely no shame in the fact that I had a hard time keeping it together behind the lens.’

‘I do photography as a hobby and work full-time at St. Croix Hospice. I have a strong enthusiasm for both of my jobs, so seeing them work together last week filled me with immense joy.

Sue Bilodeau, the daughter of the Kings, who witnessed her parents’ celebration, is currently organizing a photo album of their most treasured moments.

She told The Washington Post, ‘It was definitely one of the most special things ever.’ ‘The St. Croix staff

collaborated to ensure they could have their special day when Mom mentioned she didn’t have time to plan a large wedding and didn’t have a photographer.’

According to Bilodeau, those who doubt the enduring power of true love can be disproven by examining the example given by their parents.

‘Together they demonstrate that a great love takes kindness and perseverance,’ she said to the Post.