Preference may be given by the appointing power, to all honorably discharged soldiers, sailors, and marines, who served in the Army or Navy of the United States during times of war, who have passed the required civil service examinations, notwithstanding the fact that the names of such soldiers, sailors, and marines may not be among the four names standing highest upon the eligible lists as hereinbefore provided. Such appointments of soldiers, sailors, and marines, may be made without regard to any age limitations now provided for by law or the rules and regulations of any board or commission having in charge civil service regulations in any county, city, or borough.
53 P.S. § 603