Local World War II vet celebrates 100th birthday

Earlier this year, Verner Odell Lathrop was given the opportunity to travel to Washington, D.C. to visit the World War II Memorial among other memorial sites, accompanied by fellow veterans, including longtime friends Navy veteran Sid Evans and Army veterans E.T. Clark. Lathrop is now celebrating an even bigger milestone - his 100th birthday.

"It really feels good," said Lathrop of the turnout at a birthday party on July 18 at VFW Post 1839 in Cleveland.

Lathrop, who was born on July 18, 1915, celebrated his birthday at the VFW Post 1939 surrounded by family, friends and fellow veterans. He happily blew out the candles on his birthday cake as those in attendance clapped for his longevity and accomplishments.

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