CAMILLUS — Friends, family and numerous representatives of a grateful Camillus community gathered May 17 to celebrate the 100th birthday of World War II veteran Ernest Hamer. The celebration was coordinated by Honor Flight.
Hamer, who currently resides at Camillus Ridge Terrace, served during World War II from 1942 to 1945.
Among those in attendance were Hamer’s son Brad and daughter Debbie.
They were joined by the Camillus Volunteer Fire Department, which led the drive-by caravan past Camillus Ridge Terrace. The Manlius VFW, led by Commander Paul Hrynio, conducted a gun salute.
The Camillus Middle School Choir, led by Don Schuessler, was on hand as was the Hamer Sing Along Group, a group formed by Hamer and his wife 50 years ago.
Legislator Ken Bush, who is also a family friend, was in attendance as well.
Congressman John Katko’s office provided a flag which had been flown over the U.S. Capitol Building.
Allie Combs, social director of Camillus Ridge Terrace was also on hand.
Additionally, students from Camillus High School made birthday cards for Hamer.
