George KERCHNER

KERCHNER, George Francis, passed quietly at home on February 17, 2012. Born February 22, 1918 to John and Caroline Kerchner, of Baltimore. He married former Violet I Schuneman, and celebrated 50 years before her death in 1989. He joined the Elite 2nd Ranger Batallion as Lieutenant, for what General Bradley called, " the toughest of any task assigned on D-Day." He was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross. "By his determined leadership and outstanding heroism, he led his company in the successful assault upon and captured the 155 mm enemy gun positions. He tenaciously and courageously held his position until relieved and was a constant inspiration and source of encouragement to his troops." Several oral histories are available, including one at the National D-Day Memorial in Bedford, Va., where a plaque will commemorate his service and a tree will be dedicated in his name. He retired to Ocean City, Md., a founding member of Ocean Pines Volunteer Fire Department, and later met his second wife, former Kathryn Fairchild, who survives him and recently celebrated 20 years. In addition to Vi, he was predeceased by a brother, John; sisters, Loretta and Lucille. He is survived by a daughter, Mary Lou; three sons, John F., Thomas J. and Greg P. Kerchner; four grandsons, two great-grandsons, and two great-granddaughters. A private service is planned. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to National D-Day Memorial, P.O. Box 77, Bedford, Va. 24523, or Descendants of WWII Rangers, c/o Ben Temkin, 80-35 Springfield Blvd, Apt 3M, Queens Village, N.Y. 11427.


This obituary was originally published in the Richmond Times-Dispatch.