Joseph T. Waligore

Waligore, Joseph T., 92, of Spring Hill, died March 2, 2014. Born in Detroit, Michigan, he was a highly decorated US Army veteran of World War II, serving as a machine gunner and sharpshooter in 5 European campaigns and 1 in Sicily. Among his many medals and awards are the French Legion of Honor, 2 Bronze Stars, and 2 Purple Hearts. Joseph’s WWII infantry company liberated the city of Barneville-Carteret, France under heavy gunfire and a monument to his company stands outside the city’s townhall. He was recently welcomed back as a returning hero with champagne, wonderful French food, a city tie and coin. In addition, he signed a postcard that the town had his commander sign 20 years earlier. He is predeceased by his wife, Doris, and is survived by his children, Jo Ann Smerdon, Garry Waligore, Joe Waligore, Mary Jo Letner, Kathleen Waligore, Michele Waligore, Suzanne Waligore, 9 grandchildren and 20 great-grandchildren. Friends may call on Wednesday, March 5, 3-6 PM at Pinecrest Funeral Chapel. There will be a Mass of Christian Burial on Thursday, March 6, 9:30 AM at St. Frances Cabrini Catholic Church in Spring Hill followed by interment at Florida National Cemetery with military honors provided by VFW Spring Hill Post 10209.