North Myrtle Beach Times Serving our Community and the Grand Strand for over 50 years
On June 6, Mayor Marilyn Hatley issued a proclamation recognizing Leonard A. Gardner as a patriot, further proclaiming that it is an honor to have him as a citizen of North Myrtle Beach.
On June 6, 1944 (D-Day), America was engaged in a world war against countries who sought to force their beliefs on the free democracies of the world.
On that same day, Leonard Gardner, U.S. Army, shipped out to England and joined the 90th Division, then fought his way through Valognes and Montebourg to cut off the Nazis fleeing Cherbourg. His division cut across the Carentan Peninsula through La Haye-du-Puits where Leonard suffered serious wounds and evacuated.
After recovering from his wounds, he continued his career with the military, serving in the Psychological Warfare Division at Supreme Headquarters in London.
An ambitious person, Leonard later went to college and received a B.S. from New York University and an M.A. from Columbia University. He continued his career in the military, retiring in 1963 as an 0-5 Lieutenant Colonel.
In retirement, Leonard became a sailing instructor for many years, traveling to over 50 countries.
Today, at the age of 97, Leonard is still a dancer and enjoys his weekly outings with the Ocean Drive Shag Club.
