Local WWII veteran celebrates his 100th birthday

CHIPLEY, Fla. (WJHG/WECP) - A local World War II Veteran is celebrating his 100th birthday on Monday.

His granddaughter-in-law, Mary Scherer, said Wendell Scherer is a retired Navy veteran who served as a communications specialist on the USS Estes during the war.

His granddaughter Mary recounts a story that she says only he can tell best. On the way to the battle of Iwo Jima, due to a twist of fate, Wendell’s ship was delayed just long enough for him to arrive shortly after the entirety of the battle. Their family acknowledges the significance behind the delay and is grateful they can celebrate their “Opa.”

He was married to his wife for over 65 years, until she passed. To keep busy, Wendell made wooden trinkets and tables to sell at a local flea market until about a year ago, says Mary.

On Sunday, friends and family gathered lovingly at his home to celebrate this hometown hero’s 100th birthday.

Happy Birthday to you, Wendell, and thank you for your service.

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