Front Royal World War II veteran Jack Rickel celebrates 95th birthday Friday

World War II veteran Jack Rickel, of Front Royal, pictured receiving his servic medals, in 2015, over 70 years after his war-time service. / Courtesy photo

WINCHESTER – Front Royal World War II veteran Jack Rickel will be celebrating his 95th birthday by having dinner with his family and friends at the Mission BBQ Restaurant in Winchester Friday, April 20 at 5 p.m. Anyone wishing to stop by the restaurant –located at 2630 S Pleasant Valley Rd, Winchester –and wish Mr. Rickel “Happy Birthday” or thank him for his military service is welcome to do so.

The veteran received a Bronze Star and other awards in a ceremony three years ago, which he had earned over 70 years ago.

Jack Rickel was drafted into the Army in 1943 at age 20 and achieved the rank of sergeant while serving as part of allied efforts in Europe.

Rickel’s unit declared him missing in action after he ended up behind enemy lines during a night patrol. He received a Purple Heart following shrapnel injuries and was still recovering at a Verdun, France hospital, when the war ended in 1945. His military records were eventually lost in a fire at the National Personnel Records Center in St. Louis in 1973.

The veteran said he never really thought about getting his medals after returning home,  but meeting local businessman Greg Butcher, whom Rickel met when he walked into Butcher’s former Winchester business, changed that.

The two men struck up a conversation after Butcher noticed a 4th Infantry Division pin on Rickel’s hat. Once Butcher learned that the sergeant never received the medals he had earned, he began the process of getting Rickel’s records verified so that the veteran could receive his medals.

Butcher is reluctant to take much credit for his part in the effort, saying he worked with “close to 50 people” who helped make the 2015 ceremony happen. “I would have done the same thing for any one of the World War II veterans,” Butcher said.

It’s been nearly four years since Jack and his wife, Gloria, walked into Butcher’s shop, and the three have since become good friends. Come Friday evening, as Rickel celebrates his 95th birthday, Greg Butcher will be there to congratulate his dear friend and to thank him for his service.