Knox College Athletics

George enlisted in the United States Army Air Corp in 1942. He served as a Sergeant and gunner on the B-24 Liberator Bomber and flew 35 missions. Upon his honorable discharge in 1945, he was awarded Purple Heart for being injured in combat. He declines the honor. George had seen so many of his fellow soldiers killed, so many of his comrades more severely injured than he, that he didn’t feel comfortable accepting the recognition.
 
So tonight we have a chance to honor a man had little interest in awards or presentations. His life at Knox College was one of involvement and commitment. He was a leader, on the football field and the basketball court, as well as on campus. His life’s accomplishments are well worth listing, because they are a testament to a life of service.
 
George came to Knox College from Knoxville, Illinois and lettered letter times in both football and basketball. He captained both of those teams in 1936, and was a runner-up for the Hunter Trophy, given to the male two-sport athlete with the highest grade point average.
 
Around the Knox campus George could be found presiding over the student council, attending Friars Club meetings, and was also a valued member of the “K” club. He belonged to the Phi Delta Theta fraternity, and served as its president his senior year.

Upon graduation George worked for the college as an admissions officer until he enlisted in 1942. When he returned the war he worked in sales for two Peoria-based companies—R.G. Le Tourneau, Co. and the Ray Defenbaugh Co. He later returned to Galesburg and served as the station manager of WGIL radio and then became an investment broker for H. Cleon Johnson Co.

George was a man of honor who let his actions speak for themselves. His service to his country and his alma mater resonates with all of us even today. He epitomized the gallant patriot and the loyal alumnus.