American Legion names World War II vet as grand marshal for Park Ridge Memorial Day parade
World War II veteran and longtime Park Ridge resident Don Hurst has been selected as the 2026 Memorial Day Parade Grand Marshal.
Hurst was born on July 4, 1928, and enlisted in the Army Air Corps in 1944 at the age of 15. He reported to the 308th Bomb Group as a gunner and, within months of arriving in the European Theater, fought in the Battle of the Bulge.
One of the most notable moments of his service occurred in early 1945, when the B-17 Flying Fortress he was aboard was shot down over Germany during a bombing mission targeting a ball bearing factory in Stuttgart.
Serving as a replacement gunner on a newly deployed aircraft, Hurst and his crew encountered heavy resistance from German fighter planes after completing their bombing run.
As the aircraft sustained critical damage and lost power, Hurst secured his machine gun and inflated a life raft to help cushion the impact. The plane ultimately crash-landed behind enemy lines near German troops. The co-pilot was killed and several crew members were injured.
Hurst used the life raft to move injured crew members to safety and defended the group from approaching enemy soldiers until they were able to reach Allied lines. His actions during the incident earned him the Silver Star and the Distinguished Flying Cross.
His Silver Star commendation, signed by President Harry S. Truman, recognized his extraordinary bravery in combat and his efforts to save fellow airmen.
Following the war, Hurst continued his military service for an additional 11 years before leaving the Air Force in 1957. He has lived in Park Ridge for nearly 70 years.
In 2007, Hurst self-published a memoir, “It Was Either Them or Us,” recounting his wartime experiences. A life-size bronze statue honoring his service stands at Town of Maine Cemetery, depicting Hurst in full flight gear.
Hurst’s service, courage, and commitment to his fellow servicemen exemplify the values honored each Memorial Day. His selection as Grand Marshal recognizes a lifetime of dedication and sacrifice.
The Memorial Day Parade, hosted by American Legion Post 247, will step off at 10 a.m. on Monday, May 25. from South Park Rec Center, West Talcott Road and South Cumberland Avenue.
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