By Glenn Rolfe

DAGSBORO — Centennial birthday celebrations are somewhat rare but always very special.

Even more so when the fellow turning 100 is a highly decorated World War II hero, whose accolades include France’s highest honor.

On May 11, American Legion Post 24 will do just that, saluting Ernest “Ernie” Marvel the day before the U.S. Army veteran from rural Frankford turns a century old.

“I can just assure you this is going to be one heck of a celebration,” said Jen Myers, Post 24 Auxiliary’s marketing and social media coordinator. “The decorations alone — people are going to be talking about them, (as they’re) all red, white and blue. Balloons throughout, the ‘Big 100’ marquee. It’s going to be spectacular.”

Donnie Carey, Mr. Marvel’s grandson, agreed that it should be “quite an event.”

The man of the hour served April 21, 1944, until his honorable discharge April 13, 1946. A private first class, he was part of the 45th Infantry Division during wartime, then was reassigned to the 45th Quartermasters.

Following the Battle of the Bulge, Mr. Marvel arrived in France and saw action in the Allied push into Germany. He also was part of the liberation of the Dachau concentration camp.

During battle, he drew numerous special assignments, including bellying across a field strewn with German mines and booby traps. The bazooka marksman knocked out enemy vehicles, as well.

For his bravery, Mr. Marvel amassed a slew of medals.

Then, in mid-July 2022, he visited Washington, D.C., for his induction into the French Legion of Honor — the highest order of merit in that country, both military and civil.

Back home, he’s no stranger at Legion Post 24.

“He is one of our favorite members,” Ms. Myers said. “Mr. Ernie is just the type of man that you just want to sit next to because the stories he has are just incredible.”

The celebration, which will run 1-4 p.m., will be open to the public and includes lunch. The post is at 28181 Nine Foot Road.

“This is my week to try to tie up loose ends, find out where we stand with donations of food,” Ms. Myers said Monday. “I know there will be at least 100-150-plus people there to honor Mr. Ernie.”

In reaching out to local businesses for support, she said she was somewhat disappointed in the response, expecting that “more people would want to do something for a World War II veteran and somebody turning 100. I think (it) is a pretty big honor in itself. ...

“We’re going to make a big celebration here for him, regardless.”

Anyone who would like to help out may contact Ms. Myers at jennymyers813@gmail.com.