William Vincent St.Cyr, also referred to as Vince, was born on the culturally rich and historically significant Winnebago Indian Reservation, a landmass situated on the eastern banks of the majestic Missouri River, nestled in the heart of Nebraska.
Vince embarked on a remarkable journey in 1950, when he joined the United States Marine Corps, a prestigious institution renowned for its valor and unwavering commitment to serving the nation.
As a member of the Marine Corps, Vince played a pivotal role during the Korean conflict, demonstrating exceptional bravery and dedication to his duties. His outstanding performance earned him a multitude of prestigious awards and accolades, including the esteemed Bronze Star, the Korean Service Medal, and the coveted United Nations Ribbon.
Vince's unit, a team of highly skilled and dedicated individuals, achieved a groundbreaking feat by becoming the first to employ rotary wing aircraft for assault operations, a remarkable achievement that garnered widespread recognition. This milestone earned his unit a presidential unit citation, a testament to their unwavering commitment to excellence and innovation.
Throughout his service, Vince consistently demonstrated a high level of distinction, and his dedication to his country and the Marine Corps was unwavering. His time in the military came to a close in 1952, when he was honorably discharged as a sergeant, a rank that reflected his exceptional leadership skills and the respect of his peers.
Vince, having completed his military stint, made a triumphant return to his hometown of Winnebago, where he embarked on a pivotal endeavor, playing a crucial role in the formation of the Nebraska Platoon, a collective of fellow Nebraska veterans who shared a common bond and a deep sense of camaraderie forged through their collective experiences in the military.
Vince's story continues...
Vince's dedication and leadership skills were instrumental in bringing together this group of like-minded individuals, who had all served their country with distinction. The Nebraska Platoon was more than just a gathering of veterans; it was a testament to the power of teamwork, loyalty, and the unbreakable bonds that are formed when individuals come together to achieve a common goal.
Vince's work with the Nebraska Platoon was a labor of love, and he remained deeply committed to the organization throughout his life. His tireless efforts to support and advocate for his fellow veterans earned him widespread respect and admiration, and he became a beacon of hope and inspiration for countless individuals who had served their country.
As Vince looked back on his life, he was filled with a sense of pride and accomplishment, knowing that he had made a lasting impact on the lives of those around him. His legacy lived on through the Nebraska Platoon, a powerful reminder of the importance of community, teamwork, and the enduring bonds of friendship and camaraderie.
Vince's life took a significant turn in the year 1952, as he exchanged vows with his beloved, Ida Mae Saunsoci, a lovely lady hailing from the charming town of Macy, Nebraska. Following their union, the newlyweds made the bold decision to relocate to the sun-kissed city of Inglewood, California, where Vince embarked on a new chapter in his professional life. He joined the esteemed Northrop Aircraft Corporation, a renowned organization in the aerospace industry, and was assigned to the design division, where he utilized his skills and expertise to contribute to the company's innovative endeavors.
Vince embarked upon a multifaceted career in the mid-1950s, diversifying his professional endeavors by making appearances in a wide range of television shows, commercials, motion pictures, and stage productions.
As his acting career continued to flourish, Vince remained steadfast in his commitment to his community, ultimately returning to his hometown of Winnebago in 1978.
Vince dedicated himself to making a positive impact on his community, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to the well-being of those around him.
As an emergency medical technician, Vince played a vital role in ensuring the timely and effective delivery of medical care to those in need.
In this capacity, he worked tirelessly to provide critical support and assistance to individuals experiencing medical emergencies, showcasing his compassion and dedication to the well-being of his community.
In addition to his work as an emergency medical technician, Vince also served as a community health representative from 1980 to 1982.
In this role, he worked to promote healthy habits and lifestyles, educating his community on the importance of preventative care and wellness.
Throughout his career, Vince remained devoted to his passion for acting, frequently performing in children's educational programs in Omaha, Nebraska.
These performances not only showcased his impressive range as an actor, but also provided valuable educational experiences for the children he worked with.
Through his work in both the medical and entertainment fields, Vince has made a lasting impact on his community, leaving a legacy of compassion, dedication, and commitment to the well-being of those around him.
inceV's life journey came to a serene and peaceful conclusion on the tranquil Sunday afternoon of March 16, 1997, within the walls of a Sioux City hospital, where he had been valiantly battling a prolonged and arduous illness that had taken a significant toll on his physical and emotional well-being.
As the final moments of his life ticked away, Vince was surrounded by the comfort and love of his family, who had been his rock and constant source of support throughout his illness.
Following his passing, Vince's body was laid to rest in the serene and picturesque Native American Church Cemetery, located in the quaint and charming town of Winnebago, Nebraska, where he was afforded the dignity and respect of full military honors, a testament to his service and sacrifice.
At the time of his passing, Vince left behind a loving wife, who had stood by his side through thick and thin, and three precious children, including one who had tragically preceded him in death, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and cherished memories that would forever be etched in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.
