MONROE COUNTY, Pa. — It was a roaring celebration through the sleet and the rain in Monroe County as trucks and troopers made their way outside the American Legion in Chestnuthill Township.

Neighbor Brittany Angelica says, “I did not realize, with how bad the weather was and how cold it was outside, how many people would actually show up.” 

The weather is not stopping a special 100th birthday for World War II veteran Raymond Benensky. 

This was an idea that his neighbors started. Angelica says, “Just last year, when he was 99, he was still mowing his grass and doing his own lawn care. He doesn’t like people doing things for him.”

But boy, did people show up for this special surprise, for this all too humble hero.

World War II Veteran Raymond Benensky says, “The people are just out of this world; I love them all.”

People of all ages from across the Monroe County community are taking part in wishing Ray a happy 100th. 

Nearly one thousand cards, each handmade by Pleasant Valley School District students. 

Commander Everett Shaver says, “He’s got about another 150 in that pouch from people all over the country.”

At 100 years old, it’s the people who keep this Purple Heart recipient going, and maybe a little boilo too!

“I have a few shots left, but I say I’ll take care of that before I go back to where I’m supposed to,” Benensky says. 

The gesture and a small gift of gratitude.

“This is a great event for a person who is celebrating 100 years, and he’s a veteran/private first class. Yes, he lied about his age to get in, but that’s the dedication and patriotism of back then,” says Commander Shaver. 

For a man who sacrificed so much for our country. 

Benensky says, “I just can’t express myself, you know, how beautiful everything faired out.”