Paul Trumbetas, a 100-year-old World War II veteran and Phillies fan, was honored with a grand celebration at the Southeastern Veterans’ Center in Spring City. His daughter Denise Selzer reached out to the Phillies in hopes of attending a game for her father’s birthday. However, the Phillies had other plans, as they decided to throw Trumbetas a surprise party instead.
The event was part of the Phillies Salute to Service, where they honored Trumbetas and his fellow military veterans. The celebration included an honor guard, cake, ice cream truck and even military vehicles. Trumbetas was surrounded by friends and family as he enjoyed the festivities.
His wife Barbara and youngest daughter Fran Griffith were equally surprised and touched by the outpouring of support and celebration. The party continued with Mickey Morandini presenting Trumbetas with a special ball that he would throw out for the first pitch at an upcoming game. True to his sports-loving spirit, Trumbetas offered some advice to the team: “Tell them to keep hitting, that’s all. Keep hitting.”
The day was truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience for Trumbetas and his family, who were overwhelmed by the generosity and recognition from their favorite team.
