Long-Lost Purple Heart Returns to Family of WWII Hero in Edison Township

EDISON, NJ - A long-lost Purple Heart will be reunited with the family of a World War II veteran, according to the non-profit Purple Hearts Reunited. The Purple Heart will be given to the niece of WWII hero George Arhtur Cerrito at a public ceremony on Tuesday at 10:00 AM at 193 Hidden Hollow Court, Edison.

George was born in 1918 in Jersey City. He worked as a pipe fitter at Todd Shipyards in Hoboken before being called to service, according to Purple Hearts Reunited.

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George served with Company C of the 41st Tank Battalion, 11th Armored Division. During the Battle of Bostogne in Belgium, Cerrito’s tank was struck, leaving him and three members of his crew injured. He was rescued from the wreckage by a comrade. For his bravery, he was awarded the Purple Heart.

After the war, George dedicated his time to his community as a parishioner and usher at Corpus Christi RC Church. He was actively involved in various organizations, including the Knights of Columbus Council 7041, the 11th Armored Division Association, the Veterans of the Battle of the Bulge Association, the Military Order of the Purple Heart, and Disabled American Veterans Chapter 2.

George passed away on June 8, 1993, at the age of 75. He never married and had no children.

According to a press release, George’s Purple Heart was discovered at a flea market in Texas. A woman named Andrea Dellinger purchased the medal and delivered it to its rightful owner.

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“Certain circumstances can lead to these medals being misplaced, lost, or even stolen,” a press release reads. At this time, it is not clear how the Purple Heart ended up in a flea market in Texas.

The Purple Heart will be given to George’s niece Margarita Manhardt, who resides in Edison Township.

“George’s story is one of bravery, sacrifice, and the enduring strength of family. His memory lives on, and through the compassionate actions of individuals like Mrs. Andrea Dellinger and organizations such as Purple Hearts Reunited,” the press release reads, “his legacy continues to inspire and remind us of the profound impact a life can have.”

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