A Charleston hero and World War II veteran celebrated his 100th birthday while honoring the colors of the flag he served for more than 37 years. On Friday, December 7, Edgewood Summit hosted a patriotic-themed bash for residents and retired Brigadier General Kemp McLaughlin.
Team members from the Charleston senior living community had been planning this party for months. McLaughlin loved the party that featured live music and decorations of red, white and blue. More than 100 residents, team members and McLaughlin’s family were in attendance as he blew out the candles on his birthday cake.
Prior to becoming an active resident of the Edgewood Summit community, McLaughlin served as a Kanawha County commissioner and received recognition for his service during World War II. In 2014, the Charleston Air National Guard Base was renamed the McLaughlin Air National Guard Base in his honor. Four years later, he has been recognized for his 100th birthday.
Check out local coverage of the event and of General McLaughlin at the links below:
*Photo courtesy of Chris Dorst at the Gazette-Mail