Mission BBQ, 11000 Roosevelt Blvd., on Saturday honored two World War II veterans in celebration of their 97th birthdays.
Jake Ruser, of Mayfair, turned 97 on Dec. 27. Frank Tighe, of Atco, New Jersey, will turn 97 on Jan. 23. Both men served in the U.S. Army.
The day included lunch, balloons and a red, white and blue cake.
The crowd sang happy birthday, and Jake and Frank blew out candles on large cupcakes.
Mission BBQ plays the Star-Spangled Banner each day at noon, and everyone – including Jake and Frank – stood.
The event was organized by Mission BBQ community ambassador Shannon Sperduto.
Warriors’ Watch Riders presented Jake and Frank with stars of an American flag and challenge coins. Members of Stars and Stripes, Bars and Pipes were on hand.
Boy Scout Troop 208 and Cup Scout Pack 802 presented Jake and Frank with birthday cards.
Also in attendance were Gold Star dad Charlie Strange and Lou Kober, Hellraisers motorcycle club president, veteran and former police officer. ••
