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George Smilanich, 2nd Armored Division

Discussion in 'WWII Obituaries' started by TD-Tommy776, Aug 16, 2020.

  1. TD-Tommy776

    TD-Tommy776 Man of Constant Sorrow

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    "Smilanich, George "Pecky" Age 98, originally of Buhl, MN, passed away on Saturday, August 8, 2020 with his loving family by his side. George was the youngest of seven siblings born to Serbian immigrant parents. He was a great athlete, leading his high school football team to win the 1941 Iron Range Conference title; and winning back-to-back Minnesota State High School Basketball Championships in 1941 & 1942. George was drafted into the army in November 1942 as a tank driver in Patton's 2nd Armored Division. He was in six campaigns in the European Theater including D-Day and the Battle of the Bulge. During this time George survived the loss of three tanks. He earned The Bronze Star, The Purple Heart, and the Belgian Fourragére. Before returning home at the end of the war he served as Honor Guard at the Potsdam Conference."

    Read full obituary here:
    Obituary for George 'Pecky' Smilanich



    I had the honor of meeting George at the Minneapolis book signing for Adam Makos' book "Spearhead" in March 2019. He was also one of the WWII veteran consultants for the movie Fury.




    Be at peace, old soldier. :s!:
     
  2. Buten42

    Buten42 Member

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    Mr. Smilanich was a T/5 with "E" Company, 67th Armored Regiment, 2nd Armored. Company "E" hit the beach at Omaha on June 12, 1944. With six campaigns, he must have also served in Sicily. My highest regards for this old warrior.
     
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