NANTICOKE, Pa. — It was a day of celebration at Birchwood Healthcare and Rehabilitation in Nanticoke. Last month, Warrior Run native Russell Halchak turned 107 years old.
"To hit 107, his mind is very good. That is all I can tell you. I hope my mind can stay like that," said Russell's son Eugene Halchak.
State Sen. Lisa Baker and State Rep. Alec Ryncavage stopped by to bring him citations to celebrate the milestone birthday. And that's not the only thing they brought.
"We have some gifts for you. We heard you like scratch-off tickets. Happy birthday!
Russell is also a U.S. Army veteran of World War II.
"He served in Rome, Italy. He was an MP in the Army."
Russel tells Newswatch 16, work kept him busy.
"He can tell you," Russell said. "I worked all the time."
Russell's son Eugene can back that statement up.
"That was one of his big things, politics. He worked in the mines. He worked for Cease Motor Company in Nanticoke. He sold cars and sold his own car. He's done it all and was seldom home."
Luck was on Russell's side with those scratch-offs. He made out with $23 and a free ticket.
Happy birthday, Mr. Halchak, and thanks for your service.