Local elected officials and members of the Hellertown American Legion to honor those who have served as part of a Veterans Day ceremony at Union Cemetery Tuesday.

The weather was unusually cold, with gusty winds making it feel more like January than November, but that didn’t deter residents from coming out to thank their fellow community members who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces.

Veterans Day is about recognizing the “courage” and “dedication” of America’s servicemen and women, Hellertown Mayor David Heintzelman said.

Veterans Day Hellertown — Hellertown Mayor David Heintzelman commented that “each veteran has a story” that includes more than just their period of service.

Originally known as Armistice Day, Veterans Day has evolved over time to have a broader scope, he noted.

“They face dangers most of us will never know,” Heintzelman said. “Thank you for your service, your sacrifice and your steadfast devotion to country.”

A special highlight of the ceremony came when Legion Post 397 Commander Eric Medei recognized a 102-year-old World War II veteran, local resident and “living legend.”

William “Bill” Diehl enlisted in the U.S. Army Air Forces as an airplane engine mechanic and later became commander of the Hellertown Legion, where he has been a member for 80 years.

Medei also noted that he is a former Hellertown Borough Manager and Engineer.

“I’m so fortunate to have met you,” he told Diehl, who was also presented with a proclamation from Heintzelman proclaiming Nov. 11, 2025, William L. Diehl Day in the borough of Hellertown.

Diehl, who sat bundled up on the stage due to the bitter cold, thanked both men for the recognition bestowed upon him.

The ceremony also included prayers, the placement of a wreath on the war memorial, a military salute by an honor guard, patriotic music performed by the Hellertown-Lower Saucon Community Chorus and recognition of veterans in the audience.

Following the event, attendees were invited to a luncheon at the Hellertown American Legion.