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!
Local News
Train Derails in Ferguson Involving Vehicles, Hazmat Team Called Over Ethyl Alcohol Rail Car
FERGUSON, Mo. — A train derailment involving vehicles prompted an emergency response in Ferguson on Ferguson Avenue, where authorities requested a hazardous materials team after determining that one of the train cars contained ethyl alcohol.
Emergency units were dispatched to 617 Ferguson Avenue after reports of the rail incident. Responders found a train that had derailed with vehicles involved.
Officials confirmed there was no reported entrapment. Crews were checking the scene for injuries and evaluating those involved in the incident.
A Hazmat response was requested because one rail car involved in the derailment was carrying ethyl alcohol. Emergency crews were assessing the rail car for any potential leak or hazardous condition and working to secure the area.
The presence of ethyl alcohol prompted additional safety precautions while responders examined the derailed train and surrounding vehicles.
At this time, authorities have not released details about possible injuries, the cause of the derailment or the extent of damage.
The investigation and emergency response remain ongoing in Ferguson, and officials are expected to provide additional information once the scene has been fully assessed.