World War II veteran turns 100, receives over 700 birthday cards

VESTAL, N.Y. (WIVT/WBGH) – A World War II veteran now living in Vestal turned 100 years old last week.

Les Wilmarth is a resident at Elderwood Village, and the nursing home threw him a surprise birthday party.

Wilmarth was born in Binghamton on August 6th, 1924. In 10th grade, Wilmarth started working as an apprentice for IBM, and soon after, joined the Army.

Wilmarth married his childhood sweetheart, Ada Ruth. Together, they adopted two children and now, Wilmarth is a grandfather to 3 grandchildren.

Elderwood says they received over 700 birthday cards from the community, all wishing Wilmarth the best.

At his party, there was live music, decorations, cake, and even a visit from State Senator Lea Webb.

The senator gave Wilmarth a certificate of recognition, for his time in the service and to celebrate his 100th birthday.

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