Somerville WWII Veteran Turning 100, Drive-By Celebration Planned

SOMERVILLE, MA — The public is invited to join a drive-by celebration to honor World War II veteran Marvin Spitzer on his 100th birthday. Spitzer, who has lived in Somerville for 75 years, spent four years in the U.S. Coast Guard and served as a chef on the USS Murzim during World War II.

On Friday, Feb. 26, members of the U.S. Coast Guard, the Somerville Police Department and the Somerville Fire Department will lead a procession of friends, family and well-wishers past Spitzer's home in East Somerville.

Ted Louis-Jacques, director of Veterans' Services, will present Spitzer with citations from the U.S. Senate, the U.S. House of Representatives, Gov. Charlie Baker's office, the Massachusetts House of Representatives, the Massachusetts Senate, Mayor Joseph Curtatone's office and the Somerville City Council in a socially distant ceremony after the parade.

A Virginia native, Spitzer put down roots in Somerville in 1946 and worked as a master electrician in the Charlestown Navy Yard. Today, Spitzer is known as a proud great-grandfather, gifted singer and generous neighbor who has prepared hundreds of Thanksgiving turkeys and birthday cakes for community meals over the years.

"This is an incredible milestone for Mr. Spitzer," Louis-Jacques said in a statement. "Even the most challenging times cannot diminish our gratitude to his service and his family’s sacrifice. Our hearts will unite as we honor him. He paved the way forward for a new generation of soldiers to serve, and for that I will always be thankful."

Attendees should meet at the La Quinta Inn parking lot, 23 Cummings Street, at 12:45 p.m. on Friday. In accordance with COVID-19 protocols, all parade participants will remain in their vehicles for the duration of the event. Questions may be directed to Ted Louis-Jacques at tjacques@somervillema.gov.