Longtime church usher and World War II veteran honored by Catholic school in Arcadia
ARCADIA, Calif. (KABC) -- A Catholic school in Arcadia honored a beloved church usher and World War II veteran who's just a month away from celebrating his 101st birthday.
Joe "Peppy" Sciarra has been an usher at Holy Angels Catholic for decades, and students honored him Monday morning with a special ceremony at the school.
"It's very exciting to me to see all these young children," he said. "It's my fourth year coming here, and when they see me at church, when they see me go by, they always wave at me. They know me."
The children said they were elated to honor Sciarra as well as all veterans who served and are currently serving our country with distinction and dedication.
"It's important because they fight for our country and our freedom, and it's a time for us to learn and respect them," said 8th grader Kayley Irvin.
Sciarra's impact extends far beyond this milestone. He continues to inspire, traveling across the nation to share powerful stories of his battles, unexpected leadership and love -- having been married to his wife for over 70 years.
