Negra’s service in the Army’s 128th Armored Field Artillery Battalion, 6th Armored Division began when he was drafted in 1943. Born near Avella, Pennsylvania, to immigrants from Austria-Hungary, Negra expressed no hesitations about entering the service during wartime. He landed on Utah Beach in Normandy on July 18, 1944, and fought in the battle of Brest among other battles. Later, he served in the Occupation of Germany until being honorably discharged on December 17, 1945. Negra proudly considers himself a part of “The Greatest Generation” and believes they saved the world.
As Negra prepared to attend the 80th anniversary of D-Day in France, he reflected on the significance of the event for both the people of Europe and himself. He mentioned that representatives from 35 different countries would be present at the celebration, honoring the Allied forces’ efforts during World War II. Negra, who turned 100 on May 28, considered himself lucky to have survived uninjured during the war. Despite witnessing a lot of death and tragedy, he found love in the midst of chaos when he met his future wife at a dance while deployed overseas.
Negra shared a poignant memory of a harrowing moment during his time in France when his column was strafed by German planes while on the road with the 6th Armored Division. He recalled seeking refuge behind a brick well, which luckily shielded him from the attack. As he plans to return to France for the anniversary, Negra hopes to revisit the location of the well, despite being told it may no longer be there. The significance of this visit holds personal importance as he reconnects with a past that shaped his life and reflects on the sacrifices made during the war.
The upcoming D-Day anniversary holds a special significance for Negra, who believes it is his duty to pay tribute to his fallen comrades and honor their memory. As one of the few remaining World War II veterans, Negra represents a generation that played a crucial role in defeating Nazi Germany and securing peace in Europe. His story serves as a reminder of the bravery and sacrifices made by those who served during the war. Negra’s journey back to France symbolizes the resilience and determination of the Greatest Generation and their enduring legacy of valor and patriotism.
Negra’s reminiscences of World War II paint a vivid picture of the challenges and hardships faced by soldiers during the conflict. Despite the harrowing experiences and the toll it took on him, Negra finds solace in the friendships he made and the love he found amidst the chaos. His resilience and determination to revisit the scenes of his past demonstrate a deep commitment to honoring the memory of his fallen comrades and preserving the legacy of those who served. Negra’s journey back to France, to commemorate the 80th anniversary of D-Day, is a powerful reminder of the enduring spirit of those who fought for freedom and democracy during one of the darkest periods in history.
As the world marks another milestone in honoring the sacrifices of those who served during World War II, Negra’s story serves as a testament to the indomitable spirit of the Greatest Generation. His journey back to France, where he once fought alongside his comrades, is a poignant reminder of the enduring legacy of valor and sacrifice that defines their generation. Negra’s presence at the D-Day anniversary celebration is a poignant tribute to the men and women who fought and died for freedom, and a testament to the enduring power of their collective sacrifice. In commemorating the 80th anniversary of D-Day, Negra stands as a living testament to the courage and resilience of those who served, ensuring that their stories and sacrifices are never forgotten.
