THOMSON, Ga. — Thomson honored one of the nation’s few remaining World War II heroes by renaming National Avenue as Louis Graziano Avenue during an Aug. 29 ceremony.
Graziano, 101, fought at Omaha Beach during World War II and is likely the only remaining witness to the Germans’ signing of the instrument of surrender at the Little Red Schoolhouse in Reims, France in May 1945.
How he got there and more about his time serving during World War II is chronicled in his 2018 book “A Patriot’s Memoirs of World War II: Through My Eyes, Heart, and Soul,” which is available on Amazon or order a signed copy at louisgraziano.com.
Previous story: D-Day at 80: Thomson resident took part in Normandy invasion
Not only is Graziano a national hero, but he’s a local hero to those in his adopted community of Thomson. His service to his country didn’t end when he moved to the town with his young bride, Bobbie, an Alabama native he met while they were both serving in France. The native New Yorker has been an integral part of the community for nearly 80 years. The couple started a business and raised their family in McDuffie County.
He was instrumental in obtaining the property for and helping build the Queen of Angels Catholic Church as well as helping establish the Knights of Columbus Council 6918 in 1977, serving as its treasurer for 40 years. He and his late wife were active members of the American Legion.
“He is the American dream. He has lived it and been living it,” said Retired Col. David Moore.
Also on the program, James Hunter performed a song he’d written in honor of Graziano’s World War II service.
Another speaker was former U.S. Rep. Jody Hice (R-Ga.) who met Graziano about five years ago and was grateful for the chance to be part of the ceremony.
“I was reading this morning, and I thought it was so appropriate. Proverbs 22:1 a good name is more desirable than great riches. And you, Mr. Graziano, have a good name and that name will forever be remembered right here,” he said.
After his grandsons, Gage and Gavin Taylor, unveiled the sign, a motorcade with vintage military vehicles took Graziano down the street bearing his name to his office, where a reception was held.
“Everything went great,” Graziano said. “I appreciate all they’ve done.”
Charmain Z. Brackett, the publisher of Augusta Good News and Inspiring: Women of Augusta, has covered Augusta’s news for 36 years. Reach her at charmain@augustagoodnews.com. Sign up for the newsletter here.
