William O'Brien, Sgt. US Army, 8th Infantry Division- D-Day Omaha Beach

William O'Brien, who packed a lot of living and caring into his 96 years as a school principal, champion of children and soldier during World War II, died in Bradenton, Florida on Jan. 11, 2021.

During World War II, he served as an infantryman, fighting his way from Normandy into Germany.

Serving as an assistant squad leader in the 8th Infantry Division that landed on Omaha Beach, O'Brien was wounded in action during his 11 months in combat. His book titled "Life of Dogface WWII Combat Infantryman," was published in 2019.

"There is no way to explain what a person feels like when the war is over. You're being shot at all the time and suddenly you're free. I was scared all the time. Any soldier who says they were in combat and they weren't scared is lying,"

A native of Rushville, Ind., Mr. O'Brien attended Central Normal College, later renamed Canterbury College after the war, and lettered in track, cross country, basketball and baseball. "I have loved sports all my life. Sports is one of the best experiences a girl and boy can have during their lifetime," he once said.

Bill O'Brien wears a Purple Heart and Combat Infantry Badge.

He traveled to three Olympic games, Mexico City in 1968, Munich in 1972, and Montreal in 1976, as well as to Olympic trials in Indianapolis, Eugene, Ore.; and Los Angeles.
For his 85th birthday, he celebrated with a tandem jump from an airplane.

https://www.bradenton.com/news/local/article248662390.html

 

Be at peace, Mr. O'Brien.