York County News

State Sen. Kristin Phillips-Hill and State Rep. Seth Grove paid tribute to 100-year-old World War II veteran Quentin Stambaugh in Harrisburg this week.

Grove expressed his gratitude, saying, “It was my honor to welcome Mr. Stambaugh to the House chamber to celebrate his life and service. Mr. Stambaugh is a Pennsylvania-born American hero. We must never forget the sacrifices he and other members of the Greatest Generation made to keep America free during some of the world’s darkest hours.”

Phillips-Hill also spoke highly of Stambaugh, stating, “The term hero is tossed around to explain everyday individuals who go above and beyond in their service and duty, but Mr. Stambaugh rises above them as part of the Greatest Generation. We owe a huge debt of gratitude to Mr. Stambaugh and his fellow servicemen for their courage to defend our nation during one of our most challenging times during World War II.”

Quentin Stambaugh's journey in the military began when he reported for basic training with the U.S. Army Air Corps in April 1943. He underwent training in various locations, eventually deploying to the Pacific Theater where he flew in 38 combat missions, taking down four enemy fighters and destroying numerous enemy targets.

General George Kenney, Commander of the Allied Forces in the Southwest Pacific, commended Stambaugh's service, stating in a letter to his parents, “I would like to tell you how genuinely proud I am to have men such as your son in my command, and how gratified I am to know that young Americans with such courage and resourcefulness are fighting our country’s battle against the aggression nations.”

After his honorable discharge in December 1945, Stambaugh returned home to York County, where he still resides.

The recognition of Stambaugh's bravery and dedication serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by the Greatest Generation to ensure America's freedom and position as a global superpower.