By By MARCIA STEFFENS / Cassopolis Vigilant
CASSOPOLIS - With misty eyes, Hubert Pelham listened to a room full of fellow volunteers and clients sing happy birthday Monday at the Cass County Council on Aging (COA).
Pelham has not only volunteered at the COA for 16 years, he also calls bingo and plays the bugle for the Cassopolis VFW post.
Born in Minnesota June 27, 1915, Pelham came with his wife Emma to Cassopolis in 1959 and worked for the Cassopolis Vigilant for 15 years.
His wife died in 1999 and he began coming to the COA after that.
His war record was remembered with photos of Pelham in his Navy unifrom, blown up by his friend and Post Commander Karl Crisler. "He knows how to appreciate people who love him," said Crisler.
He enlisted in 1942 and served on the USS Salt Lake City. He almost died in March 1943 during the battle of Kemandorsky when his ship became dead in the water. A framed picture of the ship was presented by William Bradley.
He earned eight bronze stars, a Good Conduct medal and the Purple Heart.
Joining Pelham at his party were two nieces. Joleen Buck, a 1965 graduate from Cassopolis came from her home in Vicksburg. Lee Ann Pelham came from Los Angeles, Calif. and her sister Karen called from London, England.
Pelham, who continues to carry his dog tags in his pocket, was presented with a new pair with thanks from the COA.