Lifestyle

Family does drive-by parade for Vernon Hills WWII vet's birthday

Posted April 10, 2020 6:00 am

James Kane

Larry Gregory and his wife of 63 years, Genevieve, celebrate his 95th birthday by watching a parade of vehicles go by their Vernon Hills residence in compliance with social distancing guidelines. Courtesy of Genn Reznicek

Lawrence "Larry" Gregory's family planned a big party for the World War II veteran, who fought in the battle for Okinawa, the last campaign of the war, in which 49,000 Americans were killed or wounded.

PFC Larry Gregory, left, 20, of Chicago writes a letter home from the back of a cart during a break in fighting against the Japanese on the island of Okinawa during World War II. It was the last major battle of the war, with 49,000 American casualties, including 12,520 deaths. Japanese casualties were far higher. Courtesy of Genn Reznicek

When the coronavirus forced the cancellation of the party, the family organized a parade of 40 vehicles past the Vernon Hills residence where he still lives independently with his wife of 63 years, Genevieve.

Larry Gregory's friends and family helped him celebrate his 95th birthday by parading 40 vehicles by his Vernon Hills residence. Courtesy of Genn Reznicek

"He's a handsome guy. He's happy and healthy," said a daughter, Christine Gregory, who lives nearby. "He had tears in his eyes."

Genevieve "Genn" Reznicek, provided this description of the event:

Family and friends of Larry Gregory celebrate his 95th birthday by parading their vehicles by his Vernon Hills residence. Courtesy of Genn Reznicek

"My grandpa, Lawrence Gregory, turned 95 on March 28th! He survived the Great Depression, along with battling World War II and now the coronavirus.

"My cousins, family and I participated in a small drive-by due to this virus that has impacted us to be separated. He is married to my grandma Genevieve "Jay" for 63 years, crossed fingers, and more to come.

Larry Gregory's 95th birthday party had to be canceled due to coronavirus, but friends and family rallied by parading their vehicles by his Vernon Hills residence. Courtesy of Genn Reznicek

"Lawrence battled for the country during World War II, raised four beautiful children, and has endless love for 5 grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren.

"Yes, he is 95, but does he look 95? No! More like 80! He still rides a stationary bike daily."

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