LORAIN, Ohio (Tribune News Service) — Michael Gronsky, who will turn 100 years old June 12, received a hero’s welcome.

A parade and recognition ceremony took place June 8 in South Amherst, Ohio, to celebrate the birthday of the World War II veteran.

The parade, organized by a variety of entities and individuals, traveled through South Amherst and featured dozens of vehicles driven by his family and community members, elected officials, local law enforcement and others.

Gronsky, who originally is from South Amherst, was born June 12, 1925, and enlisted in the Army at 18 years old.

He served in the 911th Field Artillery Battalion, the 86th “Blackhawk” Infantry Division, according to South Amherst Mayor Scott Jones.

Jones said Gronsky also served in places like the winter of the Battle of the Bulge and later in the Philippines and helped in the liberation of concentration camps.

“Mike stood where history was beginning and met every challenge with strength and resolve,” Jones said.

The event featured the South Amherst Fire, Police and Service departments, Henrietta Township trustees, the village of South Amherst, American Legion Post 118, the Lorain County commissioner, state representatives, the county sheriff’s office, Lorain County Veteran Services, Friends and Family Motorcycle Group and many others.

“We are here to celebrate a century of courage, service, family and legacy — a true American hero, a beloved member of our community,” Jones said during the ceremony. “Mike Gronsky is a living symbol of courage.”

During the service, Moore said Gronsky received various recognitions including the European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Medal, Bronze Star Medal, Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal, a WWII Victory Medal and more.

Deeter, alongside Miller, also recognized Gronsky with a proclamation for his dedicated service to the country, Lorain County and South Amherst.

Mike VonGunten, superintendent of Firelands Local Schools, highlighted Gronsky’s graduation from Henrietta High School in 1943 and named him as a founding member of Firelands Schools, before presenting two boxes of birthday cards written by Firelands Middle School students.

“It really is an honor for us to all be part of this celebration today, and recognize one of our heroes,” VonGunten said. “He went on to serve our country in a time of great need.”

Henrietta Township Trustee Joe Knoble proclaimed June 8 as Michael Gronsky Day in Henrietta Township and a day that will “forever live on.”

Gronsky’s youngest niece Dr. Theresa Staveski, a veterinarian, said the amount of support for the event has been positively overwhelming and serves as an appropriate celebration for her uncle.

“We know about his services, but to get to know him, he’s very special,” Staveski said.

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