Denise Selzer, the daughter of a World War II veteran named Paul Trumbetas, wanted nothing more than for her father to have an unforgettable 100th birthday. She reached out to the Phillies to request tickets for a game but was pleasantly surprised when the team went above and beyond and planned a grand celebration at Southeastern Veterans’ Center in Spring City.
Trumbetas, who has been a lifelong fan of Philadelphia sports teams, was surrounded by friends and family as he enjoyed the festivities. The event included an honor guard, cake, ice cream truck and military vehicles. His wife Barbara and youngest daughter Fran Griffith were equally touched by the outpouring of support and celebration.
The party continued with Phillies legend Mickey Morandini presenting Trumbetas with the ball he would throw out for the first pitch at an upcoming game. True to his sports-loving spirit, Trumbetas offered some advice to the team: “Tell them to keep hitting, that’s all. Keep hitting.” The day was truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience for Trumbetas and his family, who were overwhelmed by the generosity and recognition from their favorite team.