With many family members, friends and neighbors in attendance, Gene and Gladys Masucci celebrated Gene’s 80th birthday at the Unqua Corinthian Yacht Club, Sunday, January 30. The recently crowned Ms. Senior New York State, Marie Murray Mango, sang a solo and then, in her Marilyn Monroe costume, sang a parody of her JFK rendition of Happy Birthday to You.

Gene, a resident of Copiague, welcomed all and was pleased that his shipmates on the USS Cabot CVL 28 were present. They were introduced to the party guests. The Cabot, an aircraft carrier, participated in most of the WWII Pacific battles, earned nine battle stars and was awarded a Presidential Combat Citation by President Harry Truman. The ship continued in naval service during the Korean conflict. These Navy veterans served with Gene and still meet on a regular basis as the Long Island Caboteers.

All hands enjoyed the party and look forward to the next social event. Gene said he’ll need a little rest to get back in shape to party again.