Local News
Sun City Festival Resident George Cross to Celebrate 100th Birthday with Community and Distinguished Guests
Representatives from the Army, Luke Air Force Base, and the 82nd Airborne Association will also be present to honor George’s extraordinary life and service.
Sun City Festival resident George Cross will mark a remarkable milestone on Thursday, January 9, 2025, as he celebrates his 100th birthday.
The community is invited to join the celebration, which will take place at the Indigo Grille, starting at 2:00 PM.
The event will be attended by several distinguished guests, including the Mayor and Vice Mayor of Buckeye, Penney Pew, a representative 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 honor George’s extraordinary life and service.
About George Cross:
George Cross was born on January 9, 1925, in Dewey, Oklahoma. At just 16 years old, he was inspired to become a paratrooper after an Army paratrooper visited his school. George and his best friend Donovan decided that day to pursue a life of service and adventure.
At 17, George joined the 82nd Airborne Division as a paratrooper and bazooka specialist. On June 5, 1944, the day before D-Day, George courageously parachuted into Normandy during Operation Overlord, landing in pastures near Sainte-Mère-Église with critical orders to “prevent the Germans from reaching the beach.”
His bravery and dedication in the face of danger contributed to the Allied success during this pivotal moment in World War II.
George also participated in several other significant battles and operations throughout the remainder of the war, showcasing unwavering heroism and commitment to his country.
This celebration not only honors George’s remarkable milestone but also his incredible legacy of courage, service, and resilience.
For more information about the event, please contact Gary Smith at 707-628-4983.
Happy 100th Birthday, George Cross! Your community salutes you!
Hutchinson, KS – Authorities have issued evacuation orders for parts of downtown Hutchinson following a gas leak and building explosion on Main Street.
An emergency alert was sent to residents, advising them to avoid the area between Avenue A and Avenue F, from Adams Street to Plum Street due to the ongoing emergency.
The City of Hutchinson has urged all residents and businesses within these boundaries to evacuate immediately as a safety precaution.
The City of Hutchinson issued the following statement via Facebook:
“Due to a large fire in the downtown area, we are implementing an evacuation of Avenue A to Avenue F, and Plum to Adams. All residents and businesses within these boundaries are urged to evacuate immediately for their safety. A warming shelter has been established at the Salvation Army located at 7th and Walnut for those in need of temporary shelter. We will provide additional information as it becomes available. Please stay safe and stay tuned for further updates.”
As of now, Reno County Dispatch has not confirmed the cause of the explosion, the extent of damages, or whether there have been any injuries.
First responders remain on the scene, assessing the situation and working to contain the fire and potential hazards.
Residents are advised to stay clear of the area, follow emergency services’ instructions, and await further updates from local authorities.
This is a developing situation. Additional information will be provided as it becomes available.