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Certificate of Recognition awarded to World War II Veteran, Mr. Joseph McKinney, upon the occasion of his 90th birthday.
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This Certificate of Recognition is presented to Mr. Joseph Edward McKinney upon the momentous occasion of his 90th birthday. Mr. McKinney was born on October 23, 1924 in Munhall and graduated from Munhall High School in 1942. Mr. McKinney served in the 86th Infantry Division for the U.S. Army. His division was sent to the European front to engage in the Battle of the Bulge against the Nazi offensive in the Ardennes. He saw action in Belgium, Germany, reduction of the Ruhr pocket, Bavaria and Austria. After Victory in Europe (VE) Day, Mr. McKinney's division was transferred to the Philippines and the Pacific campaign. Mr. McKinney was promoted from Private to Staff Sergeant E-06 in a little more than one year and awarded a Bronze Star, among other medals, for Action in Combat. After the war ended, Mr. McKinney returned to Pittsburgh, attended St. Vincent Seminary and earned a bachelor's degree from Duquesne University. He led a 45-year successful career with the Pittsburgh Press. Married for 62 years, Joe and Helen adopted and raised four children, and are the proud grandparents of 19 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. Mr. and Mrs. McKinney have been very active in their parish churches at St. Philomena and St. Bede, where both have served as lectors and Eucharistic Ministers for over 40 years each. Joe also volunteers with Forbes Hospice at West Penn Hospital. We honor Mr. McKinney for his dedication and service to our country and our community. We wish Mr. McKinney all the best and join his family and friends in celebration of his 90th birthday.