Stew Lahey, 98, of Bridgeport, says he's not a hero -- but his life experiences tell a different story.

"I'm one of the last surviving veterans who fought at Iwo Jima during the Second World War," the proud great grandfather told News 12 Monday.

"I joined the Marine Corps when I was 17. I didn't wait to enlist because it was 1943 and they needed me," Lahey said.

The longtime Bridgeport resident began home hospice this week, surrounded by his family.

"We love him so much and we are so proud of what he did for our country," said granddaughter Mikela Lahey.

"When he began home hospice, due to his congestive heart failure and other health issues, we all started to cry -- but he didn't want that. He wants us to smile and be happy with him at the end," she said.

"He keeps saying he has 'no regrets' -- and we are so grateful to have the chance to be here with him at the end," she said.