Retired Colonel Edward Toms celebrates 100th birthday with family Zoom call | Updated: 08:20, 10 December 2020 A Second World War hero says he feels lucky to be celebrating his 100th birthday when so many of his comrades died young. Due to Covid-19, retired Colonel Edward Toms, from Hythe, can not be with all his loved ones in person for his landmark birthday today (Thursday), and so will celebrate with a virtual family gathering instead. Edward Toms celebrates his 100th birthday today. All pictures: David Toms Regimental events in his honour have also been postponed until next year. Mr Toms had a distinguished military career, having risen through the ranks from apprentice to commanding officer.