Pearl Harbor Vet Fulfills Dream To See Phillies Play
By David Spunt
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- Friday night was the big one for David Coonahan. Not because it was his 96th birthday, but because he made it back to see his Philadelphia Phillies play for the first time in person in years.
"Good seats," Coonahan said.
Coonahan was born August 28, 1919, about a month before Shoeless Joe Jackson made history during the 1919 World Series. Coonahan started his obsession with baseball 80 years ago.
"I would say around 1935," he said.
Coonahan went on to serve in World War II, but he never lost his love for baseball. He was at Pearl Harbor when the Japanese attacked on December 7, 1941. He's just one of a few Pearl Harbor and World War II survivors still alive.
"I'm glad to be one, rather than not be one if you know what I mean," he said.
Coonahan joined two other residents from Neshaminy Manor in Warringnton where he lives. The birthday boy also made an appearance on the big screen at the stadium, so thousands of fans could see him. He told Eyewitness News he hopes to come back next year for his birthday.
"I'll plan but I hope I make it," he said with a chuckle.
David Coonahan and his two friends came to the game thanks to Twilight Wish. The local non-profit honors senior citizens by making a specific dream come true.
