George Cross, a resident of Sun City Festival, will celebrate an extraordinary milestone on Thursday, January 9, 2025, as he marks his 100th birthday. This historic event will bring together family, friends, neighbors, and distinguished guests to honor a life rich in service, bravery, and resilience. The celebration is set to take place at the Indigo Grille at 2:00 PM, offering an opportunity for the entire community to come together and pay tribute to an American hero who has touched countless lives.

Among the notable guests attending the celebration will be the Mayor and Vice Mayor of Buckeye, Penney Pew from Congressman Paul Gosar’s office, and Nick Kupper, Representative-Elect for Arizona’s House District 25. Representatives from the Army, Luke Air Force Base, and the 82nd Airborne Association will also be present to salute George Cross for his remarkable contributions, both as a soldier and as a community member. Their presence underscores the respect and admiration George has earned over the decades for his unwavering dedication to his country and his fellow citizens.

The Early Years: From Oklahoma Roots to a Life of Service

George Cross was born on January 9, 1925, in Dewey, Oklahoma, during a time when the United States was still recovering from the aftermath of World War I. The youngest of three siblings, George grew up in a close-knit family that valued hard work, integrity, and resilience. His father, a blacksmith, and his mother, a schoolteacher, instilled in George a sense of discipline and curiosity about the world. These early years in rural Oklahoma shaped the character and determination that would define his later life.

In 1941, as George approached his teenage years, the world was plunged into turmoil with the outbreak of World War II. Like many young Americans, George felt a deep sense of duty and patriotism. His decision to join the military was cemented when an Army paratrooper visited his high school, sparking his interest in becoming a paratrooper himself. Alongside his best friend Donovan, George vowed to serve his country in any capacity needed. Little did he know that this decision would place him at the forefront of some of the most pivotal moments in modern history.

Joining the 82nd Airborne Division: A Young Paratrooper’s Journey

At the age of 17, George enlisted in the Army and joined the 82nd Airborne Division, one of the most prestigious units in military history. After rigorous training, George became a paratrooper and bazooka specialist, roles that demanded both physical endurance and mental acuity. The camaraderie he developed with his fellow soldiers was unparalleled, and they soon became his second family.

George’s first major operation came on June 5, 1944, the day before D-Day. As part of Operation Overlord, George parachuted into Normandy under the cover of darkness. The mission was fraught with danger; the paratroopers were tasked with securing key positions and preventing German reinforcements from reaching the beaches. George and his comrades landed in pastures near Sainte-Mère-Église, a small French village that would become a symbol of Allied bravery.

Recalling the harrowing experience, George often describes the fear and adrenaline that coursed through his veins as he descended from the sky. “You’re in the air, and you can hear gunfire all around you,” he once said. “But you’re focused on your mission, because you know the success of the operation depends on you and your team.” Despite facing intense resistance, George’s unit successfully completed their objectives, playing a critical role in the Allied invasion of Normandy.

A Hero’s Legacy: Beyond D-Day

George’s contributions did not end with D-Day. Over the course of the war, he participated in several other significant operations, including the Battle of the Bulge and Operation Market Garden. Each mission tested his courage, resilience, and resourcefulness. As a bazooka specialist, George was often on the front lines, facing enemy tanks and fortifications with little more than his weapon and his determination.

One of the most defining moments of George’s service came during the Battle of the Bulge in the winter of 1944-1945. Amid freezing temperatures and relentless enemy fire, George and his unit held their ground, demonstrating unparalleled bravery and fortitude. The experiences of these battles left an indelible mark on George, shaping his understanding of sacrifice and the value of freedom.

By the end of the war, George had not only earned the respect of his comrades but also numerous accolades for his service. His contributions to the Allied victory were a testament to his unwavering commitment to his country and his fellow soldiers.

Post-War Life: Building a Community and Sharing His Story

After returning home from the war, George transitioned into civilian life with the same determination and resilience that had defined his military career. He married his childhood sweetheart, Eleanor, and together they raised three children in a small town in the Midwest. George’s post-war career included roles as a teacher, coach, and community leader, all of which allowed him to positively impact the lives of those around him.

George’s dedication to service extended beyond his professional life. He became an active member of various veterans’ organizations, including the 82nd Airborne Association, where he shared his experiences and advocated for the recognition of his fellow veterans. His stories of courage and camaraderie served as inspiration for younger generations, reminding them of the sacrifices made by those who fought for their freedom.

The Celebration: Honoring a Century of Life and Legacy

As George approaches his 100th birthday, the community of Sun City Festival is coming together to honor his remarkable life. The celebration at Indigo Grille will not only mark this significant milestone but also serve as a tribute to the values of service, courage, and resilience that George embodies.

Distinguished guests, including local officials and military representatives, will join George’s family and friends in celebrating his legacy. The presence of representatives from the Army, Luke Air Force Base, and the 82nd Airborne Association highlights the profound impact George has had on both the military and civilian communities.

Gary Smith, a close friend of George and the event’s coordinator, emphasized the significance of the occasion. “This is more than just a birthday celebration,” Gary said. “It’s an opportunity to honor a man who has dedicated his life to serving others and making the world a better place.”

A Message of Gratitude and Inspiration

As the celebration draws near, George’s story serves as a reminder of the power of courage and resilience in the face of adversity. His journey from a small town in Oklahoma to the battlefields of Europe and beyond is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the enduring value of service.

In reflecting on his life, George often shares a message of gratitude. “I’ve been blessed to live a long and fulfilling life,” he says. “I’m grateful for the people I’ve met, the experiences I’ve had, and the opportunity to make a difference. My hope is that my story inspires others to live with courage and purpose.”

How to Attend and Celebrate George Cross

The community is invited to join the celebration of George Cross’s 100th birthday at the Indigo Grille in Sun City Festival. The event will begin at 2:00 PM on January 9, 2025. For more information or to RSVP, please contact Gary Smith at 707-628-4983.

As we celebrate this incredible milestone, we salute George Cross for a life well-lived and a legacy that will continue to inspire generations to come. Happy 100th Birthday, George! Your community honors you, your service, and your extraordinary journey.