February 28th, 2012
WWII hero Buck Compton dies
Celebrated World War II veteran Buck Compton died Saturday, February 24 at his Burlington home, surrounded by family. Compton is pictured here at a 2005 Veterans Day event held at Causland Park in Anacortes. Compton, who served in the 101st Airborne Division’s “Easy Company” (506th Parachute Infantry Regiment), was honored with the Silver Star for his service. He said at the Veterans Day event that he did not expect thanks for his military achievements as he was simply serving his country as all youmg American men should. Compton said the best way to acknowledge the sacrifices of those who have been wounded or killed in service to their nation is to show respect for the freedoms they defended. Compton and fellow veteran Sgt. Don Malarkey of Oregon spoke last May (2005) at a “Band of Brothers” event sponsored by congressmen Greg Walden (R-OR) and Rick Larsen (D-WA) in Washington, D.C. Compton’s wartime experience was depicted in the HBO miniseries “Band of Brothers.”