From left, Thomas Stauffer and Pat Skornicka help pin replica medals to the shirt of their father John "Jack" Stauffer, who was honored during a celebration Sunday at the Lowrie Place in Butler for his military service and for turning 100. Nathan Bottiger/Butler Eagle

A room full of people sang “Happy Birthday” to a man with medals pinned to his chest sitting behind a birthday cake crowded by commendations and letters.

On Monday, John “Jack” Stauffer, a retired U.S. Navy man who served in World War II, turns 100 years old.

Friends, family, military members and government officials alike celebrated his momentous accomplishment one day early on Sunday at the Lowrie Place in Butler, where he has called home since 2018.

Stauffer stayed true to his quiet demeanor, sharing few words, but instead offered some smiles and shook the hands of each person who placed a the plaques, letters and other pieces of presentation in his hands.

Robert L. Reese, vice commander and adjutant for the General Matthew B. Ridgway Pittsburgh Chapter of the Military Order of the World Wars, acted as emcee of the ceremonies.

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