Norwood Anewalt of Palmerton recently celebrated his 88th birthday, surrounded by his family.

He was born on May 26, 1924, the son of the late Clayton and Mamie Anewalt of Palmerton.He was married to Ethel (Heisler) Anewalt for 62 years, until her passing.Norwood is a proud World War II veteran, who traveled the world on the troop carrier, The West Point.He fought with the Fifth Marine Division and was wounded on Iwo Jima, for which he received the Purple Heart.After he healed, he returned home and married his sweetheart. They had four children: Linda, wife of Terry Duschak Sr.; Renee, wife of Milton Ahner; Deborah, wife of Michael Berezak of Michigan; and Guy Anewalt, and his girlfriend Lori.He has 14 grandchildren and 24 great-grandchildren.Norwood retired from Bethlehem Steel, where he worked for 30 years.Norwood recently had a 40th reunion with his buddies from Iwo Jima in Philadelphia. It was the first time he had seen them since he was wounded on the island, and it was an emotional reunion for them all.He has stayed in contact with them through emails and letters, although many have passed on over the years.Norwood attributes his long life to his Marine Corps training and says he would gladly serve again if needed.