OVIEDO, Fla. – It’s a special honor for a special guy during a special time. Peter Durante Sr. is celebrating his 100th birthday this week.
“I’m just glad to get up to age 100,” the World War II veteran said.
“I’m just proud he’s been such an optimistic force in our lives. He’s been there he’s been there forever,” said Peter Durante Jr., his son.
The World War II veteran served in the Navy from 1943-46 and now he’s being recognized for his years of service with a Quilt of Valor at Mission BBQ in Oviedo.
“We present them with quilts that are handmade with love as a form of national service,” Michele Mingoia with Quilts of Valor Central Florida said.
The birthday boy said he’s happy. He has a lot to celebrate and hopes more veterans like him are recognized for their service.
Durante was also one of the veterans who were recognized during an Honor Flight this April.
He along with more than 50 other veterans flew to Washington, D.C. to visit and reflect at their memorials at no cost to them through Honor Flight Central Florida. Trooper Steve Montiero and photojournalist James Gosselin joined the vets to document their experience.
Durante is also having a 100th birthday party Saturday at 1 p.m. at Casselberry Vets just off 17/92.
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