Elmo Hedum poses for a picture with two of his granddaughters, who helped organize a parade Monday of family and friends for his 94th birthday. - Colleen Harrison/Albert Lea Tribune

Albert Lea police and fire departments took part in a parade for World War II veteran and Purple Heart recipient Elmo Hedum on Monday for Hedum's 94th birthday. - Colleen Harrison/Albert Lea Tribune

Kevin Hedum takes part in the parade for his father's birthday on Monday in Albert Lea. - Colleen Harrison/Albert Lea Tribune

World War II veteran Elmo Hedum watches as a parade of family, friends and local first responders drive by Monday to wish him a happy 94th birthday. - Colleen Harrison/Albert Lea Tribune

Kevin Hedum said those who participated in the parade for his father, Elmo Hedum, on Monday evening met up at Academy Park before surprising Elmo Hedum. - Colleen Harrison/Albert Lea Tribune