D-Day veteran Jack Kraszewski waves to the crowd during a celebration parade in Pulaski, May 28, 2024. PC: Fox 11 Online
PULASKI, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) — It was a party decades in-the-making.
Hundreds of people turned out Tuesday to salute Pulaski area veteran Jack Kraszewski.
Jack not only recently turned 100 years old, he’s also one of the very few remaining survivors of the D-Day invasion in World War Two.
Just after 11:00 in the morning, a very special march kicked off down St. Augustine Street in Pulaski.
“We’re honoring Eugene Jack Kraszewski. World War Two veteran, that landed in Normandy 80 years ago,” said Jim Van Lannen, VFW and American Legion Past Commander.
Jim Van Lannen helped coordinate Tuesday’s parade.
“He’ll be in celebration on June the 6th, for the landing of Normandy. We’re honoring him today, because we’re sending them off to Normandy, rather than welcoming him back. He’ll be all worn out by the time he gets back. He just turned 100,” he said.
Jack Kraszewski says he’s surprised by the turnout.
“It was awesome. Never expected anything like this. Holy man, the people that came out, unbelievable,” said Jack Kraszewski, U.S. Army Veteran.
Dozens lined the street, including Stacey Von Busch, Executive Director of the Pulaski Area Chamber of Commerce.
“It’s great to see the community come out. Come together. Be a part of something like this. This is quintessential small town. And it really is a highlight of that Pulaski Pride that this community has,” said Stacey Von Busch, Pulaski Area Chamber of Commerce Executive Director.
After some patriotic music from the Pulaski High School Band, the one-jeep parade was over, and Jack Kraszweski headed out. His trip to France starts on Wednesday. He says it’s the first time, he’ll be returning to Normandy, in 80 years.
“I’m very much excited, and I’m so happy that was here today. Can’t believe how many people turned out to see me,” said Kraszewski.
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