WWII Veteran, Maryland Native Turns 100

ODENTON, MD — In eight days, World War II veteran James Derry will turn 100. Now a Florida resident, the Maryland native spent time at Fort Meade where he trained before shipping out.

Derry's wartime career includes receiving the Bronze Star for heroism displayed while helping defend French towns from German forces. He also was honored with the Combat Infantryman Badge while with the 242nd Infantry Regiment.

Growing up in Buckeystown, Derry quit school in the seventh grade after an incident he doesn't recall. He worked on the family farm before he was drafted Aug. 4, 1943, at age 23 when he lived in Woodsboro. He landed in France on Dec. 8, 1944.

After serving almost three years in the Armed Forces, Derry resumed working in the trucking industry and raised two sons with his wife Cleo who passed away more than a decade ago.

Read more about Derry's life and upcoming birthday in the Destin Log.