General William O. Darby Birthday Celebration
by January 9, 2015 11:56 am 124 views
Fort Smith Museum of History
General William O. Darby Birthday Celebration
Saturday, February 7, 2015
1:00 p. m.
The Fort Smith Museum of History will celebrate the birthday of native son and World War II hero General William Orlando Darby on February 7, 1:00 p. m. Born in Fort Smith on February 8, 1911, Darby graduated from Fort Smith High School and the United States Military Academy at West Point, New York. General Darby is well known for the formation of the Darby’s Rangers during World War II. Darby’s Rangers distinguished themselves in combat in North Africa and Europe. Darby was killed in action on April 30, 1945 at Torbole, Italy. During his career Darby received three Purple Hearts, two Distinguished Service Crosses, the Silver Star, the Legion of Merit, the Russian Order of Kutuzov and the French Croix de Guerre. Army Rangers of today honor the legacy of General William O. Darby.
Visit the Darby Room at the museum and view a rare interview with Major Warren "Bing" Evans. Major Evans was Battalion Sergeant Major to then Colonel Darby and offers a fascinating description of Ranger training and the devastating Battle of Cisterna.
The event is offered free with museum admission: $5 for adults, $2 for children, under age six are free.
For more information, contact the Fort Smith Museum of History, 320 Rogers Avenue, 479-783-7841, www.fortsmithmuseum.org.