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On May 20, 2025, the Butler VA Health Care System held its 15th Centenarian Recognition Award Event for WWII Veteran Stanley Lantz. Mr. Lantz was honored by staff, volunteers, family, and
fellow Veterans with a letter and coin from VA Secretary Doug Collins, as well as a birthday cake, balloons, and an Americana-themed quilted blanket. Mr. Lantz has been receiving care from
the Butler VA for over 20 years. When asked about the key to his longevity, he remarked: “The excellent care provided by VA doctors.” Mr. Lantz served in the Army Air Force/Corps from 1943
to 1945, assigned to the 8th Air Force, 452nd Bomb Group, 28th Squadron, as a B17 Gunner stationed in England. He enlisted in the military with aspirations of becoming a pilot, having
developed an interest in aviation from a young age. At age 16, he obtained his pilot’s license. Shortly after the war began, a Cadet Program was initiated at his high school, and he joined
in preparation for military service as a pilot. At 17, he officially enlisted. Unfortunately, the Pilot Program was discontinued, leading to his reassignment to Gunnery School. In addition
to his role as a Gunner, he occasionally served as a combat photographer due to his background in photography. Hear his story through the Veterans History Project at
https://www.loc.gov/item/afc2001001.89152/. The Centenarian Recognition Program was established in 2020 under former Secretary of Veteran Affairs (VA) Robert Wilkie and has been continued by
former VA Secretary Denis McDonagh and current VA Secretary Doug Collins. This program is a special initiative to honor American heroes—Veterans who are or have turned 100 years old.
Veterans receive a letter from the Secretary of the VA along with a commemorative coin and public recognition from their respective VA facility. Identifying our Centenarian Veterans is a
coordinated effort by VA health care providers, Public Affairs and Center for Development and Civic Engagement (CDCE) teams. Butler VA’s CDCE (formerly called Voluntary Services)
implemented the program locally at the beginning of 2024. “We wanted to be a part of this special program and recognize our local heroes for their service,” comments Amy Tomko, Chief of
CDCE. To date, Butler VA has requested 20 Awards and presented 15 Centenarian Recognition Awards. To be considered, Veterans must be enrolled and receiving care through the VA health care
system. For more information or to recommend a Veteran for this award, please call 724-477-5010.
