ABINGDON, Va. (WJHL) – Every birthday is special. But on Sunday, the congregation of Cleveland Presbyterian Church held a celebration far bigger than the rest, one marking a century.
Don Parker, a resident of Abingdon, celebrated his 100th birthday on Sunday, surrounded by his friends and family.
“He’s a special guy and a hundred years of age,” said Rick Laney, Pastor of Cleveland Presbyterian. “We just wanted to honor him as a church family.”
Parker has spent his life serving others. Most notably, Parker served on the front lines during the D-Day invasion.
“This young man,” Laney said. “Landed in June of 1944 on the beach of Normandy. The soldier in front of him in the landing craft was shot and killed, and Don was wounded and awarded the Purple Heart.”
Honor Flight trip Mission No. 7 returns home Sunday During the church’s Sunday service, the congregation celebrated Parker and congratulated him on the milestone. Among the celebrations was a presentation by Virginia State Senator Todd Pillion.
“I was fortunate enough to give Mr. Parker a commanding resolution from the Senate of Virginia honoring not only his birthday, but also his service to our country,” said Pillion.
As a veteran, Pillion says he has the utmost respect for Parker’s life of service.
“He is a true hero and famous person walking among us,” Pillion said. “And we have to make sure that he is recognized throughout our country, and especially here in Southwest Virginia.”
Parker was also recognized by Abingdon Mayor Amanda Pillion, who presented Parker with a proclamation and a key to the city. Pillion presented this award alongside the Veteran’s Advisory Board.
Parker’s family said they’re grateful for those who showed up to celebrate.
“It’s fantastic to have such a big gathering and have everybody out here,” said Parker’s grandson Samuel Vorhes. “It’s huge, and I’m glad that everybody was able to come down here because there’s a lot of folk that came from a lot of faraway places.”
Parker attributed his long life to one thing.
“I guess I was just too stupid to die,” Parker said.
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