Thomas Rexford celebrates Veterans Day and his 102nd Birthday surrounded by family and friends at the Hernando County YMCA.
Earlier this month, the Hernando County YMCA had the opportunity to celebrate a very special Veterans Day. In addition to honoring our veterans for their service to the country, the members and staff at the Hernando Y celebrated the 102nd birthday of local veteran, Thomas Rexford.
Thomas is a World War II veteran and served in the Army Air Corps in South Africa. Born November 11, 1919, he voluntarily enlisted and joined a rich tradition of family members who have served. This Veterans Day, he joined other veterans for a hot breakfast and cake for dessert to mark the occasion, along with a program of patriotic music performed in their honor.
This celebration is one of many ways the Hernando Y honors active duty and veterans on a regular basis. “As part of our cause to strengthen communities, the Y supports active duty military personnel and veterans for the sacrifices that they have made for our country. Providing monthly events for our Veterans is just a small way that we can continually say thank you while also providing the ability for them to build relationships with fellow service men and women. It is amazing to see the camaraderie and hear them share stories and life experiences,” said Amber Slusser, Branch Executive Director, Hernando County YMCA.
“We are all so lucky and honored to be able to celebrate Thomas each year. Not only is he a veteran, but he was born on Veterans Day and both him and his wife have been part of the Y family for over 30 years,” said Amber.