Lawrence Santucci, recognized as the oldest TSA agent in the United States at 90 years old, arrived for his shift at John Wayne Airport in Orange County, California, to find a surprise birthday party awaiting him. Colleagues, friends, and family organized the event to celebrate his milestone and honor nearly two decades of dedicated service with the Transportation Security Administration.
Refusing Retirement
Santucci shows no signs of slowing down. “What am I going to do if I retire? Sit down?” he remarked. TSA Federal Security Director Jason Pantages describes him as “inspirational” and notes that “he gets more compliments than most of our people here.” Fellow TSA agent Kevin Gregory adds that Santucci “greets the day with a smile.”
From Financial Challenges to Airport Fixture
Santucci joined the TSA in 2008 during his seventies amid financial difficulties. To prepare, he tested his strength by carrying two 60-pound weights around Dick’s Sporting Goods. “You had to be able to carry weights, 60 pounds,” he recalled. “I was in great physical shape.”
A self-described “people person,” Santucci thrives in his role. “It’s been a beautiful journey. It really has. All the people I’ve ever met, including my crew here,” he said.
Lifetime of Service
His daughter, Marie Pickard, highlights his lifelong commitment to service, from farm work in Rhode Island after Army duty to his current position. “My dad is so special. He always puts people first and our country first before himself. I think that gives him the sense of purpose that he has to everyone,” she stated at the celebration.
Santucci expressed deep gratitude for the heartfelt gesture. “I appreciate everything you’ve done today,” he said. “My heart feels so good right now.”
