WORCESTER, Mass. - Local World War II veteran Victor "Perry" Sacco is celebrating his 100th birthday this week.

Sacco was born in Worcester in 1923 and graduated from the former Commerce High School in the city. He was drafted into military service in August 1943, served in several battles, including the Normandy assault and the Battle of the Bulge, and received a bronze star.

Family, friends and local lawmakers gathered Monday evening for a party celebrating Sacco at Dino's Restaurant in Worcester, which he owned with his wife for 20 years, from 1962 to 1982.

"I'm overwhelmed," Sacco said Monday night. "I didn't have any idea all of these people were going to come here. Everyone's here, so we're having a good time, having a great time."

"I don't think anyone said they couldn't come tonight," said Carolyn Sacco, Victor's niece. "Everyone really wanted to congratulate him and just show him how much he's loved and cared about."

"He's just a terrific human being and a very smart individual," added current Dino's owner Jay Evangelista. "And a lot of his wisdom I've always kept through the years because it makes a lot of sense and he ran a good ship here. I've always tried to emulate him. A good man, and it's very emotional."

Sacco said the key to his long life is hot peppers and red wine. He also received a citation from Gov. Maura Healey and Lt. Gov. Kim Driscoll to recognize his birthday.