“Can you believe it?,” a visitor asks, eyes wide as they approach the George Dilboy Memorial Statue. The George Dilboy Memorial Statue stands as a tribute to a remarkable hero. It is located at the Hines Veterans Administration Hospital in Hines Illinois. This is a western suburb of Chicago.
This memorial honors George Dilboy. He was a Greek-American who earned the Medal of Honor. He earned it for his bravery during World War I. He was the first Greek-American to receive this honor.
Born Georgios Dilvois in Ottoman Turkey in 1896, Dilboy’s journey is incredible. His family immigrated to Somerville Massachusetts in 1908. Dilboy returned to Greece in 1912. He volunteered to fight in the Balkan Wars. He then returned to America. He later joined the U.S. Army.
Dilboy served in the Mexican Border War. He then reenlisted for World War I. He became part of the 26th “Yankee” Division. In July 1918 his company faced a tough mission. They had to control the Bouresches railroad station in France.
During the Aisne-Marne counteroffensive, Dilboy showed extraordinary courage. His platoon was fired upon by an enemy machine gun. Dilboy stood tall on the railroad track. He returned fire. He then charged the gun emplacement with his bayonet.
Despite being severely wounded Dilboy continued his attack. He killed two enemy soldiers. He dispersed the rest of the crew. His actions helped his platoon achieve its objective. Sadly, Dilboy died from his wounds. He was just 22 years old.
In January 1919 Dilboy’s father received his Medal of Honor. He was proud that his son gave his life for his adopted country. Dilboy was initially buried in France. His remains were later moved to his birthplace in Alatsata Greece.
During the Greco-Turkish War Turkish forces desecrated his grave. President Warren G. Harding was outraged. He sent a warship to retrieve Dilboy’s remains. In 1923 Dilboy was finally laid to rest at Arlington National Cemetery.
Three U.S. Presidents honored Dilboy. Woodrow Wilson authorized his Medal of Honor. Warren G. Harding brought his remains home. Calvin Coolidge presided at his final burial.
The George Dilboy Memorial Statue was erected in 1942. It stands as a symbol of Dilboy’s courage and sacrifice. It reminds us of the contributions of Greek-Americans to the United States.
As you stand before the George Dilboy Memorial Statue take a moment to reflect. Consider the life of this brave soldier. Remember his dedication to duty and his ultimate sacrifice. The George Dilboy Memorial Statue serves as a lasting reminder of his heroism. It also honors all veterans who have served our nation.