A local World War II veteran was recognized over the weekend for a very special birthday.
Retired U.S. Air Force Lieutenant Colonel John Mahler was the guest of honor at a program Friday at the Abie Abraham VA Healthcare Center in Center Township marking his 100th birthday.
Over 100 people showed up to celebrate Mahler, including retired U.S. Army Lieutenant General William Pagonis, who presented him with a presidential birthday citation. Representatives of U.S. Congressman Mike Kelly and State Rep. Brian Ellis also presented certificates.
Over 300 birthday cards were given to Mahler, as well as a handmade quilt presented to him by the group Quilts of Valor.
“I’m going to use that quilt quite often,” Mahler said Friday. “I want to thank you all for coming. This is more important than I’ve been all my life. Thank you.”
The Butler County and Butler Township commissioners declared today- which is Mahler’s actual birthday- to be “John Mahler Day” across the county.
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