Winnetka Park District Celebrates World War II Veteran this Fourth of July
Winnetka, IL; June 28, 2021 — Glenn L. Felner, World War II veteran who fought in the Battle of the Bulge, will serve as grand marshal for the 2021 Fourth of July Parade. The parade, held 10am, Sunday, July 4, will afford parade attendees the opportunity to recognize Mr. Felner’s bravery, leadership, and patriotism for his participation in what has been called the “greatest American battle of the war.”
Born in Chicago, Felner enlisted in the army after high school and served as a technical corporal for the 271st Regiment, 69th Infantry, Division Seventh Army. As a combat infantryman, Felner fought in the Battle of the Bulge in the Ardennes region of Belgium, where he survived brutal weeks of frigid conditions in a quest for freedom and liberation. Months later in Germany, his unit came upon the Buchenwald Concentration Camp where he saved thousands of Jewish prisoners “from certain death at the hands of their Nazi captors.”
Felner received many military accolades for his heroic activities including the Combat Infantry Badge, the U.S. Bronze Star, and the French Legion of Honor decoration.
Leaving his military career behind, Felner came home to a job in journalism for the Chicago Sun-Times but eventually spent decades in the insurance industry.
Successful during his career with Mass Mutual as a chartered life underwriter, Felner is just as proud of his accomplishments as an animal lover. Felner was an honorary consul general in Rwanda through the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund, established the PAWS Adoption Center in Highland Park, and if given the chance, would bring any stray dog into his home to stay forever. Along with wife Bonnie and dogs Patch and Alfie, Felner continues to impress.
The Winnetka Park District and Village of Winnetka are honored to recognize Felner as grand marshal of the Fourth of July parade. The parade starts at Elm Street and Glendale Avenue and travels east on Elm Street to the Village Green. Following the parade, the Winnetka Park District will host Fourthfest at 12pm with the support from local business sponsors. Fourthfest participants will enjoy a balloon artist, crafts, games, inflatables, a giant slide, and more.