Today officially marks the 117th birthday for Jimmy Stewart, the Indiana native who went on to have an amazing acting and military career. A PA house resolution was passed earlier this month to name today in his honor.
The resolution was made by State Representative Jim Struzzi, which highlighted not only Stewart’s lengthy film career, but also his work in the Army Air Corps during World War II, where he earned many recognition awards including the Air Medal, the Air Force Distinguished Service Medal and the Distinguished Flying Cross. In 1985, in recognition of his film and military career, Stewart was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian honor.
Struzzi said in the proclamation that Stewart still has a positive impact on the county. He said that “his relatability and fame still attract tourists, holiday enthusiasts, and film lovers alike, providing a depth of appeal to our region.”