Charles Gilmore, a resident of The Village at Palmerton, celebrated his 89th birthday on Feb. 15.

Originally from Bryn Mawr, he served as an infantry rifleman in Europe during World War II.While in the service he received the Silver Star, the third highest award given.After the service, he worked at Philadelphia Water and Gas. Around that time he was dating a girl named Margaret Millen. He went to her family's home for dinner one evening to meet her parents, only to be introduced to her younger sister Josephine. He and Margaret parted as friends and he began dating Josephine."One thing led to another and I couldn't live without her." They were married in 1955.Charles joined the U.S. Postal Service in 1946, and worked his way up to branch supervisor. He retired after 33 years.He is a Philadelphia Eagles fan and has been a season-ticket holder since 1940."Back then when you purchased a season ticket, you were given a season ticket for a child free. That was good marketing. That way you could always take one of the kids to a game."His favorite player was Steve Van Buren, "the greatest half back that ever played the game," said Charles.Charles has three children. His son Charles lives in Havertown; daughter Betty lives in Chapel Hill, N.C.; and Fran resides in Albrightsville.He moved to the area to be closer to his daughter Fran."She visits often, and I am so glad she takes care of her dad," Charles says with a smile. "Every parent should be so lucky."Charles enjoys walking for daily exercise and listens to audio books on tape from time to time; but he finds the most enjoyment in watching Phillies and Eagles games.