Hollywood, May 30: A Marine band played "Thanks for the Memory," four World War II planes roared overhead and a historic Hollywood intersection was renamed "Bob Hope Square" on Thursday to mark the 100th birthday of the most honored entertainer in the world. "In the future, when you pass this intersection, why not recall your favorite Bob Hope joke or story, take a moment to laugh and help us make this the happiest corner in the world," said Johnny Grant, the honorary mayor of Hollywood and an old friend of Hope.
Actor Mickey Rooney, former U.S. president Ronald Reagan's son Michael Reagan and city officials joined Hope's children and grandchildren at the corner of Hollywood and Vine where Hollywood -- and Hope -- enjoyed their golden age.
California and some 30 other U.S. states declared Thursday "Bob Hope Day," while cards, e-mails and tributes poured in to the absent, now frail comedian's suburban Los Angeles home. Ill-health also kept his wife Dolores, 94 at home.
Hope, who has been out of the public eye since 2000, was due to celebrate quietly with his family on Thursday over a meal of lamb, roast potatoes and lemon meringue, and a birthday cake with 100 candles.
"He knows this is going on and he is very touched by it," Hope's daughter Linda told reporters. "He is so grateful for all the birthday wishes. He has cherished every moment with the audiences he helped make laugh."

Bureau Report