Today, I salute Veteran and actor Kurt Russell. Kurt is best known as an actor in such movies as “Tombstone,” “Escape from New York,” and “Miracle.” He’s less well-known as a Veteran who proudly served his country in the 146th Tactical Airlift Wing in the California Air National Guard from 1969 to 1975. This past 4th of July holiday, he spent time in Massachusetts learning about Jason Russell. Jason is Kurt’s great-grandfather, eight times removed. He was a militiaman who stood up against the British — and was killed in action 250 years ago when he fell in combat on April 19, 1775, as the English were retreating from Lexington and Concord. He fought in Menotomy — now the town of Arlington, about nine miles northwest of Boston — in the bloodiest battle of the day, which began with the famous “shot heard round the world.” Kurt just discovered this and was shocked that his family hadn’t discussed it. It’s something Kurt is now very proud of. Thank you for sharing your family story, Kurt, and THANK YOU for your service.
