World War II hero, a Purple Heart recipient, rounds the century mark. He’s lauded by 200 at a gala reception

By Carol Ann Benanti

STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — World War II veteran John Tulli, who served our country in the invasion of Omaha Beach in Normandy, was feted on the occasion of his 100 birthday Feb. 3 in the Grand Ballroom of the Historic Old Bermuda Inn.

Nearly 200 revelers witnessed the milestone and rose to their feet as the war hero entered the Rossville banquet hall.

Among those who offered congratulatory greetings to the new centenarian were his three children, Terry Tarangelo, Rita Sirabella and John L. Tulli, along with his eight grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.

The crowd also included Frank Siller, president and CEO of the Stephen Siller Tunnel to Tower Foundation, Assemblyman Michael Reilly, and representatives from the offices of State Senator Jessica Scarcella-Spanton and District Attorney Michael McMahon.

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