On Thursday, January 9, 2025, the Sun City Festival community will come together to celebrate the 100th birthday of one of its cherished residents, George Cross. The event, which promises to be both a personal milestone and a community tribute, will be held at the Indigo Grille, commencing at 2:00 PM.
The celebration will see the presence of notable figures, including Buckeye Mayor Eric Orsborn and Vice Mayor Tony Youngker, as well as Penney Pew, who represents Congressman Paul Gosar. Nick Kupper, Representative-Elect for Arizona’s House District 25, will also attend, contributing to the community’s recognition of George’s extensive life and service.
Adding a touch of patriotism and military honor to the occasion, representatives from various military units will be present. This includes personnel from the Army, Luke Air Force Base, and members of the 82nd Airborne Association, all coming together to acknowledge George’s contributions during his service years.
George Cross’s story is one of remarkable valor and dedication. Born on January 9, 1925, in Dewey, Oklahoma, his journey into the military was spurred by an inspiring visit from an Army paratrooper to his school at the age of 16.
This encounter, shared with his best friend Donovan, set both young men on a path toward serving their country in the most challenging of times.
At 17, George enlisted with the 82nd Airborne Division, where he was trained as both a paratrooper and a bazooka specialist. His most notable act of bravery came on June 5, 1944, the eve of D-Day, when he parachuted into Normandy during Operation Overlord. His mission was to secure the area around Sainte-Mère-Église, preventing German reinforcements from reaching the beaches where the main invasion would occur. His actions on that day were crucial in ensuring the success of the Allied forces’ operation, marking a turning point in World War II.
Throughout the war, George participated in numerous other significant engagements, each time demonstrating the bravery and spirit that would define his legacy. His service was not just a chapter in his life but a testament to his character, showcasing a commitment to duty and country that lasted well beyond his active years in the military.
This celebration is more than just a birthday party; it’s a homage to a life lived with extraordinary courage, resilience, and service. It provides an opportunity for the community to reflect on the sacrifices made by individuals like George, whose contributions to history are both personal and profound.
For those interested in attending or learning more about this special event, they can reach out to Gary Smith at 707-628-4983 for further details. This gathering at Sun City Festival is not merely a celebration of longevity but a poignant reminder of the values of service, bravery, and community that George Cross embodies.
The post WWII Paratrooper George Cross Celebrates 100th Birthday, Remembered for D-Day Heroics in Normandy first appeared on Trusted and Verified USA News.
