George Murray Turns 100

George Murray Turns 100 on March 31, 2019. A survivor of the Pearl Harbor attack, he marked this incredible milestone surrounded by his wife of 72 years, four daughters, 10 grandchildren, and other loved ones in a private celebration. This extraordinary moment reflected not just a century of life but also a lifetime of resilience, dedication, and service.

At just 22 years old, George was thrust into the chaos of Pearl Harbor, but his journey started much earlier. At 17, with his parents’ blessing, he joined the Civilian Conservation Corps, leaving his Massachusetts home to work on public infrastructure projects like road and bridge maintenance across the United States.

Three years after joining the Corps, George enlisted in the Army’s Chemical Warfare Service. He was stationed at Schofield Barracks in Oahu, where he served for two uninterrupted years before taking a well-earned seven-day leave on December 5, 1941. Two days later, his break was interrupted by news of the Pearl Harbor attack, which he heard on the radio while enjoying his time as a tourist in Oahu.

Despite being 10 miles away from his post, George immediately set out to return to Schofield Barracks, using every means of transportation available. When he arrived, he found his unit unharmed, although a bomb had fallen perilously close to the barracks.

In the aftermath of the attack, George and his unit played a vital role in Hawaii’s defense preparations. They distributed gas masks to civilians near military facilities and trained them in their use, ensuring the island was ready for any further assaults that, thankfully, never came.

In 1942, George departed from Hawaii to attend Officer Candidate School. He was later deployed to England, where he performed clerical duties like censoring mail. A year later, he was sent to France as part of the 86th Chemical Mortar Battalion. There, he took part in the Battle of Elsenborn Ridge on the Belgium-Germany border.

After the war, George reverted to Enlisted status and rose to the rank of sergeant major in 1959. Following his military career, he remained active in various veteran organizations, including the Pearl Harbor Survivors Association, the Veterans of the Battle of the Bulge, and the 86th Chemical Mortar Battalion Association. His exceptional service earned him induction into the US Army Chemical Corps Hall of Fame.

George Murray’s story is one of courage, dedication, and resilience. From his early days in the Civilian Conservation Corps to his heroic service in World War II and his continued involvement with veteran communities,his legacy stands as a lasting tribute to the sacrifices of those who serve. Celebrating his 100th birthday is not just a personal milestone but a moment to honor a man who lived through history and contributed to shaping it. George Murray’s life stands as an inspiration to future generations, ensuring that the bravery and dedication of the Greatest Generation will never be forgotten.