Gerald F. Russell

Gerald F. Russell was a Marine who served in World War II, including missions to Iwo Jima and Guadalcanal. He commanded one of the first units to land in Japan and provided protection for the US technical teams covering the atomic bomb site in Nagasaki. Russell also witnessed the historical raising of the American flag on Mount Suribachi in Iwo Jima.

Early years Russell was born May 1, 1916, in Providence, Rhode Island.

Education He held a Master of Business Administration from George Washington University and a Master in Education from American University.

Military career Russell later served as military representative to the 1968 US Olympic team and US Olympic site selection committee. He was the United States representative to the Conseil International du Sports Militaire in 1967. He was instrumental in starting and eventually coaching the United States Marine Corps (USMC) track team.

Russell served as a member of the Centre County United Way Board of Directors, chairman of the Centre County United Way Day of Caring, and was community volunteer and leader, including with the Pennsylvania Special Olympics, and Centre County Toys for Tots.

In 2011, Russell was the inaugural awardee for the LT Michael P Murphy Distinguished Citizen Award.

Russell died February 24, 2014, at Mount Nittany Medical Center.

Legacy

Russell was buried with military honors at Arlington National Cemetery.

The Marine Corps League's Nittany Leathernecks Detachment #302 honored Russell with a scholarship in his name. The Scholarship was established to provide post secondary education financial support for children and grandchildren of Centre County Servicemen and women who served their country since September 11, 2001.

The Centre County United Way Day of Caring was renamed to the Colonel Russell Day of Caring.