7-year-old Girl from Pennsylvania Surprises her 100-year-old ‘Best Friend’ on His Birthday in Newtown Twp., Bucks County

Celebrating 100 Years in Newtown Township, PA

On Friday, a resident of Bucks County, Pennsylvania, marked his centennial birthday in a grand manner, thanks to his young best friend’s elaborate surprise.

An Unforgettable Arrival on a Fire Truck

Seven-year-old Layla Leuthy Peck, his closest confidante, made a remarkable entrance at Joe Gagliardi’s residence, atop a Newtown Township Fire truck. Her arrival was accentuated by the blasting sirens and horns, setting the stage for a unique birthday celebration.

A Milestone Birthday in Pennsylvania

Gagliardi was commemorating a truly remarkable milestone – his 100th birthday. Despite their 93-year age difference, their bond remains unbroken. “Since I was a baby,” Layla responded when asked about the length of their friendship.

Honoring a WWII Veteran on His 100th Birthday

During this centennial celebration, Gagliardi, a World War II veteran, was bestowed with a flag that had been flown in his honor over the capital building in Washington D.C. Members of the Newtown Fire and Police departments, including Layla’s father, Sean Peck, a policeman from Penndel, came in droves to congratulate Gagliardi. Peck, who grew up in the same neighborhood, was inspired by Gagliardi’s war stories to join the army.

A Special Gift from a Young Friend

The highlight of the day, however, was Layla’s thoughtful gift of 100 handmade cards from her classmates at St. Andrew’s Catholic School in Newtown. “Since he’s turning 100 maybe we should make him 100 cards, ’cause he’s a good person! We made 100 cards, the whole first grade did,” Layla expressed.

As a living symbol of service and sacrifice, Gagliardi’s legacy continues to inspire the younger generation, like Layla.

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