Historical society program celebrates ‘Band of Brothers’ soldier

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“What a night for the Johnston Historical Society,” board member Anthony Ursillo assessed last Wednesday at the organization’s Museum Barn.

From the time treasurer Joe Jamroz performed his traditional chef duties until George Luz Jr. finished a heart-warming and informative talk about his father – a Rhode Islander who served in World War II and was portrayed in the award-winning HBO miniseries “Band of Brothers” – society members and guests enjoyed an evening of community and history.

Luz spoke about his father’s life and service, and about the bonds be built with the other members of “Easy” Company. That unit – part of the 506th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 101st Airborne Division – was remembered in Stephen E. Ambrose’s 1992 non-fiction book, upon which the miniseries produced by Steven Spielberg and Tom Hanks was based. It took part in the American landing at Normandy, Operation Market Garden, and Hitler’s Eagle’s Nest.

The younger Luz built relationships with many of his father’s brothers-in-arms by attending reunions over the years. He has also become involved in the World War II Foundation, which is dedicated to honoring, and telling the stories of, those who served.

“George [Luz Jr.] is a remarkable man,” Ursillo said.

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