The Erie U.S. Naval Reserve Center is consolidating with Buffalo, NY. and will close on April 7th.

For some local Navy Veterans, it was the start of one career and the extension of another.

Navy Veteran Charles Lehr went from active duty to the reserves and back to active.

He told Erie News Now, "It was the local Naval Reserve Center that extended my career, and I am grateful for that opportunity."

Doris Philhower spent 26 years in the U.S. Navy, and she will attend the closing ceremony on Sunday.

Veteran Robert Hicks believes Erie will continue to have a strong Navy Presence. 

(Ret.) Rear Admiral Robert Reilly is expected to be in Erie on Sunday for the ceremony.