I would like to adjourn tonight’s meeting in memory of Joseph Benjamin McDivitt. One of our nation’s proud veterans who bravely served our country in World War II.
Joseph is remembered as a true American hero.
He was born in 1917 in New Jersey and grew up during the Great Depression.
When World War II began he was drafted to the Army.
His honor and devotion to his country – coupled with his skill and knowledge allowed him to quickly be promoted through the ranks from officer – all the way to major.
Shortly before the end of the war – Joseph was stationed in Northern Italy when he was approached by a Swiss Colonel.
The Colonel explained that German forces were closing in and attempting to retreat to Germany through Switzerland.
Joseph was able to negotiate a surrender with the German soldiers – saving countless Swiss and German lives in the process.
Due to his bravery in this situation – Joseph was bestowed with honorary Swiss citizenship.
After World War II, Joseph returned to the states and continued his armed forces career, working his way up to the rank of Colonel.
He married his wife – a retired lieutenant colonel Army nurse in Vietnam.
His experience in war inspired him to help those who were orphaned during the fighting. He brought many children to the United States after their parents were killed in Vietnam.
After being honorably discharged from the Army, he and his wife moved to Canyon Country where they raised their son David.
Colonel Joseph McDivitt passed away last month at 101 years old.
A 21-gun salute and folding of Old Glory at Eternal Valley Memorial Park commemorated his accomplishments in the U.S. Army before he was laid to rest in Pennsylvania.
We are sad to learn of Joseph’s passing – but are so thankful for his long life spent serving our Country and helping people worldwide.
Our thoughts are with his family and friends during this time.