Kentucky’s oldest WWII veteran dies at 108

Oakley Hacker, a Clay County native, achieved the rank of gunner’s mate second class and served as an armed guard aboard the S.S. Oliver Wolcott during WWII.

During the biggest seaborne invasion in U.S. history on June 6, 1944, Hacker provided gunnery support. His D-Day mission helped ensure the protection of cargo ships and operational ships.

According to his obituary, there will be a celebration of his life that will be held at noon at the Britton Funeral Home Chapel in Manchester, with a funeral to follow.