11/01/2026
🇺🇸⚓️ The Port 5 NANV Color Guard had the incredible honor of celebrating World War 2 Navy Veteran, Gunners Mate 3rd Class Nicholas Carone’s 100th birthday at his home in West Haven yesterday. GM3 Carone enlisted when he was 17 and served on an LST in the Pacific seeing intense action at Iwo Jima & Okinawa, this is where the ‘Kamikazes’ really came into play. We posted the colors, sang the National Anthem & happy birthday. As much as Mr. Carone and his family enjoyed the ceremony, I think the veterans and first responders present, enjoyed it even more! As we prepared to march back to our cars, Mr. Carone yelled ‘I’ll see you all again when I turn 110!!’ ⚓️🇺🇸
What a day honoring a true American Hero of the Greatest Generation!! 🫡⚓️🇺🇸
Written by his daughter Susan Palmer:
Today we celebrated my Dad’s 100th Birthday!!! 🎂🎉🎈The fact that he is still here is not something I ever take for granted. I don’t know a stronger, kinder, or more genuine person, and I’m beyond grateful that he’s my Dad! 🙏🏼🇺🇸💕
He was so surprised and humbled to have Port 5 - National Association of Naval Veterans Honor Guard come to his house and present him with gifts and a heartfelt letter marking his birthday, and thanking him for his Naval Service in WW II. Mayor Borer of West Haven had a prior commitment, but called to send her best wishes. In her place the City Clerk came and presented him with a Proclamation declaring today “Nicholas Carone Day”. Members of the Shoreline Veterans Association, the West Haven Vietnam Veterans, as well as the Assistant Chief and other members of the WHFD, and officers of the WHPD were in attendance as well. A special thank you to Naval Officer Brian Turco 😃 who was instrumental in arranging and coordinating today’s event! My family is forever grateful to all the individuals who took the time out of their busy lives to help make this day extra special. My Dad could not stop beaming from ear to ear, and he was touched beyond words…