99-year-old WWII veteran heads to New Orleans for D-Day commemoration
Penfield, N.Y. — World War II veteran George Steitz, now 99 years old, is preparing to embark on a journey to the National World War II Museum in New Orleans to commemorate the 80th anniversary of D-Day. This comes in the wake of the recent passing of fellow veteran Robert “Al” Persichitti, who died while en route to Normandy for the same purpose.
Having been present on the beaches of Normandy at the young age of 19 during D-Day, Steitz reflects on the harrowing experience. “We prayed, and we made it through D-Day,” he recounts. “I ended up with all five campaigns in Europe. I spent 30 months overseas. You grow up in a hurry.”
The upcoming trip to New Orleans for the commemoration is made possible through the support of the Gary Sinise Foundation, a gesture that honors the sacrifice and service of veterans like Steitz.
As the local community celebrates the 80th anniversary of D-Day, Steitz’s journey serves as a reminder of the bravery and resilience of those who served during World War II. His story is a testament to the enduring spirit of the Greatest Generation and the importance of honoring their legacy.
