Two World War II veterans celebrate 102nd birthdays in New Hanover County

WILMINGTON, N.C. (WWAY) — Friends, family and fellow veterans gathered at the New Hanover County Senior Resource Center to celebrate the birthdays of two local World War II veterans who recently turned 102 years old.

The joint birthday celebration honored George Vander Hoven, who turned 102 on April 12, and Justin Karnegie, who celebrated his 102nd birthday on June 15.

Both men served in the Army Air Forces during World War II.

The event was hosted by Leland VFW Post 12196 and included presentations recognizing the veterans’ military service. Both men were presented with United States flags in honor of their sacrifice and commitment to the country.

John Weisz, president of the organization Remembering Our Heroes, said events like this are important because the number of surviving World War II veterans continues to decline.

“I started here 10 years ago, and we had 10 World War II veterans and we now have four in the area,” Weisz said. “It’s important because most of the people that are there in our organization, they want to see these men.”