HONESDALE, WAYNE COUNTY (WBRE/WYOU) — A 100-year-old World War II veteran was honored in Wayne County for his service to his country and community.
At the Wayne County Courthouse, Sergeant Joseph Drake was honored by his family, friends, and the Wayne County commissioners for his service during World War II.
Sergeant Drake was drafted into the US Army in April of 1943 and served as Sergeant of Mortars.
Just last month, Sergeant Drake was honored in Washington, DC, with the Congressional Gold Medal.
"I had a private escort around with me, and everybody treated me so good. I met many of the families of the old rangers that was there. It was very, very nice," Sergeant Drake said.
The award honors World War II Army rangers and recognizes their "extraordinary bravery, sacrifice, and critical contributions to the war."
Drake has received many awards in his 100 years, but says saving his fellow rangers is the most meaningful thing he's done.
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"I had the five stars in Europe, five stars. And also, I had a lot, lot of individual things that I saved some of the other rangers. That meant more to me than anything," Sergeant Drake explained.
Brian Smith is the Chairman of the Commissioners and has known Sergeant Drake for years.
"This is a particular man who is one of only, I think they said what seven alive? You know, there's not many of them left. He never changes. He's just a great gentleman. Every time I've seen him, he's a gentleman. Great family man, loves his kids, loves his grandkids, and just happy to be with us all and share some of these stories," Smith stated.
Even after all these years, Sergeant Drake still holds his hometown close to his heart.
"Honesdale is a wonderful place to bring up your family, you know, and of course, Hawley too, but I mean the whole area around here. Everybody's so nice," Sergeant Drake added.
The Wayne County Commissioners say they wish Sergeant Drake all the best in his future health and happiness.
After returning home, he spent 34 years with the US Postal Service as District Postmaster, covering 17 offices in Wayne and Pike counties.
