John Marvin Steele Memorial Project

05/29/2026

On sale June 6 at Creatiobs the Florust in Metropolis, Illinois in John’s hometown. Books are 24.99 plus tax and shipping. Message or tag us to purchase.

A Completed Hardcover Graphic Novel Telling the True Story of John Steele on D-Day

05/29/2026

A Completed Hardcover Graphic Novel Telling the True Story of John Steele on D-Day

05/14/2026

Soon to be available in Metropolis, Illinois

04/30/2026

Our page is moving to the Heroes of Massac Endeavors page - which is our overarching nonprofit group! All updates related to the John Marvin Steele project can be found there! Please follow the page and thank you for your continued support! 🇺🇸 https://www.facebook.com/share/19sJNcpTi8/?mibextid=wwXIfr

11/15/2025

On the night of June 6, 1944, paratrooper John Steele found himself in one of D-Day’s most extraordinary moments. As his parachute drifted over the town of Sainte-Mère-Église in Normandy, he was blown off course and snagged on the church steeple. Suspended high above the fighting, Steele stayed absolutely still for nearly two hours, hoping the Germans below would mistake him for dead.

Steele was part of the 505th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82nd Airborne Division—one of the first units sent behind enemy lines to secure strategic locations for the Allied invasion. But strong winds, scattered drops, and heavy German resistance turned the mission into chaos, leaving many paratroopers exposed as they landed right in the middle of the town square.

Steele’s unintended perch on the church may have been the only thing that saved him. Wounded by shrapnel and unable to free himself, he watched the battle unfold beneath him. German troops eventually discovered him, cut him down, and took him prisoner. Despite his injuries, Steele managed to escape and make his way back to Allied forces.

Sainte-Mère-Église would become the first town in France liberated on D-Day, and Steele’s ordeal became one of its most iconic stories. Today, a mannequin still hangs from that same steeple—a striking memorial to his courage, survival, and the extraordinary events of that historic night.

11/08/2025

Buy a brick for this great cause - buy one for your favorite vet, memorialize your family! Have it engraved with whatever you wish for whoever you wish!

The John Marvin Steele/Massac County World War II monument has officially found its permanent home.

09/09/2025

09/09/2025

Sweet Caroline always a favorite at the amazing Steele Wings Swing Dance WW Two Fundraiser

09/07/2025

So Many Wonderful Businesses that supported our 3rd Steele Wings Swing Dance! We appreciate YOU!