George Cross Normandy 75th annivers

George Cross is a World War II veteran:  A true hero, George joined the United States Army and was in the 82nd airborn division.  He, with many others, parachuted down 18 miles behind enemy lines the day before D-Day in Normandy. They had clickers so after they landed they could find each other.  This mission was considered a suicide mission, as well it was for many.  George proudly states that he didn't suffer a scratch but balks at being called a hero.  His eyes tear up when he thinks of many of his friends who didn't make it home.  He says they are the true heros.  He loves America and our flag and his feathers definitely ruffle when he hears or sees others not "respecting" our flag.  He was only 17 years old when he joined and earned the rank of Sergeant before he completed his service.  He used his airborne experience after his service over seas, and became a smoke jumper fighting forest fires.  He was also a P.E. teacher in Montana and participated in the Senior Olympics for many years.  He is also an artist creating clay characters for many of the people in his community.

There is a 75th Anniversary coming up this June in France.   There are not many veterans who fought still around and George (age 94) would like to go but can’t afford it on his fixed income.  We are raising money for him to attend with his son (caretaker) who is also a war hero from the Vietnam Era. The Steve Ambrose tour has agreed to give George a free tour but, because of his age, it is required that he have a caretaker with him and we are raising money for his caretaker as well as for airfare and other expenses.  Please donate for our neighborhood hero.  He has great stories to share.