By Tabitha Johnston, The Journal
MARTINSBURG — The Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 896 was bustling with activity on Saturday night, as the family and friends of World War II veteran Earl “Buck” Bowers celebrated his 105th birthday.
The party was organized by Don and Ann Rivers — the post’s commander and auxiliary president, respectively — along with canteen manager Linda Stobridge. According to Ann, celebrating Buck’s birthday at the VFW has become a tradition, ever since Buck reached his 100th birthday.
“This is a gift to Buck! He is amazing, so we want to honor him,” Ann said.
She noted that the party is a little different every year, with Buck getting to pick out the meal she and her fellow auxiliary members make for it. This year’s menu included some of his favorite foods, including: pork, macaroni and cheese, beats, mashed potatoes, peas and sauerkraut. The party also featured handmade cards from Tomahawk Intermediate School’s fourth grade class and a raffle of items that had been donated by various individuals and businesses.
Unfortunately, for the first time this year, Buck was unable to make it to his own party. He had a fall a few days beforehand and had to be taken to the hospital for treatment. However, he had recorded a video to be shared with the partygoers, expressing his appreciation for them and for the overall celebration — even if he could not take part in it this year.
“I feel good now. I couldn’t feel better than how I feel right now,” Buck said. “I was in misery, but it’s just one of those things.”