Purple Heart Recipient, Summit High Grad George Colley Dies, 92

SUMMIT, NJ — George Everett Colley, a 1947 Summit High School graduate who in 1952 was awarded the Purple Heart Medal for his service, passed away on June 1.

Colley was born on Christmas of 1927 in Ludowici, Ga., to James Colley and Rubye Colley Baker.

George attended school in Ludowici before moving to Summit to live with family.

George graduated from Summit High School in 1947 and entered the U.S. Army. Following Basic Training, PFC Colley was assigned to the 23rd Infantry Regiment, in the 2nd Infantry Division, with duty in the Republic of Korea.

According to 2nd Infantry reports from January 1952, PFC Colley's unit was one of four regiments designated to defend the Missouri Line in the area known as the "Iron Triangle." A report goes on to list 1,605 "negro personnel" assigned to the division during this time, with Colley being one of 118 soldiers awarded the Bronze Star Medal for Heroic Achievement in a Combat Zone.

On Jan. 2, 1952, Colley received the prestigious Purple Heart Medal, for wounds sustained due to artillery attack.

Colley's awards also include the Korean Service Medal, the United Nations Medal, the Army Service Ribbon, the Good Conduct Ribbon, and the Combat Infantry Badge.

After his service in the Army, George began a career as a civil service employee until his retirement.

George is preceded in death by both his loving wife Jeannette and loving parents, as well as the following siblings: Mary C. Nevels, Thomas Colley, Edythe C. Bynum, Arthur Colley, Ruth C. Byrd, Walter Colley, Samuel Colley, Jimmie C. Randel, and infant Adolph Colley.

Left to cherish his memories are his siblings Herbert Colley and Juanita Neal (Richard), along with numerous nieces and nephews — including lifelong Summit resident Karen Colley.

Scholarship established

In lieu of flowers, you can donate to the newly established college scholarship in honor of George Everett Colley at the Zion Union Heritage Museum 276 North St, Hyannis, MA 02601. All Cape Cod, Mass. students who are part of the YMCA Cape Cod Achievers Program are eligible to apply.