McKendree University Athletics

George “Bud” earned varsity letters in football, track, and basketball. He was M Club [resident, Student Body president, Ivy League All-State Halfback, Plato president, Carnegie Hall president and Junior Class treasurer. He was a cast member of the McKendree production fo Thornton Wilder’s “Our Town” and member of the Glee Club, Nature Club and McKendrean Yearbook Staff. The all-around athlete was chosen football Co-Captain his junior year and Captain his senior year.

Upon graduation, George enlisted in the US Naval Aviation Program and became a pilot. His plane was shot down while attacking a German submarine off the coast of South Carolina in 1944. His bravery resulted in the sinking of the submarine and capture of 23 German soldiers. He was awarded the Purple Heart and Distinguished Flying Cross posthumously. He also received the Pacific Theatre Medal, the European Theatre Medal, the National Defense Service Ribbon, the WWII Victory Medal and the Good Conduct Medal.