George "Bud" B. Thomas

 East Providence - Private First Class George B. Thomas, known to many as simply Bud, passed away on November 24, 1944, in Vossenack, Germany. Born on January 5, 1913, in Providence, Rhode Island, he was a selfless and courageous individual who dedicated his life to serving his country.

Bud was born in Providence, Rhode Island, the son of the late George and Annie Thomas. He was the brother of the late Michael Thomas, Paul Thomas, John Thomas, Helen Saad, Victoria Thomas, Adele George, and Hannah Thomas. He is survived by several nieces and nephews, and great-nieces and nephews, who will continue to honor his memory and legacy. George had lived in East Providence all of his life prior to joining the US Army.   

Private First Class Thomas enlisted in the United States Army and served with distinction in Company C, 1st Battalion, 13th Regiment, 8th Infantry Division during the Second World War. He was deployed to the European Theater, where he bravely fought for freedom and justice. On November 24, 1944, George was reported Missing in Action (MIA) while fighting near Germeter and Vossenack during the Battle of the Hurtgen Forest in Germany. Survivors of the fighting reported that there was an intense artillery barrage, which inflicted dozens of casualties on the 13th Infantry Soldiers. Private First Class Thomas was last seen during the artillery barrage, demonstrating his unwavering courage in the face of danger, his remains were not immediately accounted for after the war.

Between 1946 and 1948 the American Graves Registration Command, recovered more than 120 sets of Unknown remains from the areas of Germeter and Vossenack, Germany. The remains were declared unidentifiable and interred as Unknowns in the Ardennes American Cemetery, Neuville – en-Condroz, Belgium. George’s remains were disinterred on August 31, 2019 and listed as unknown remains, through a very thorough examination and scientific findings, those unidentified remains, were positively identified as Private First Class Thomas, just recently. George was awarded the Combat Infantryman Badge on August 7, 1944, while serving his Country.

Bud's selfless and courageous nature was evident not only during his military service but also in his personal life. He was a devoted son, brother, and uncle who prioritized the well-being of his family above all else. His kindness and generosity extended to his friends and community, who will always remember him as a pillar of strength and support.

Although Bud's time on this earth was tragically cut short, his memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. His dedication to his country and the sacrifices he made in the name of freedom will never be forgotten. Private First Class George B. Thomas was a true American hero, and his legacy will continue to inspire future generations.

As we remember and celebrate George's life, let us honor his memory by striving to emulate his selflessness and courage in our own lives. May his spirit live on in all who were touched by his kindness, and may his memory serve as a reminder of the importance of service, sacrifice, and love for one's country.

Burial with Military Honors will be held on Monday July 10, 2023, at 1:00pm in the Rhode Island Veterans Memorial Cemetery,301 South County Trail, Exeter, RI.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend. Calling hours and flowers are respectfully omitted. Arrangements by the REBELLO FUNERAL HOME, 901 Broadway, East Providence, RI.

Rest in peace, Private First Class George B. Thomas.  Bud, your bravery, dedication, and sacrifice will forever be remembered and honored.

www.rebellofuneralhome.com

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