Shine On Salutes

World War II Veteran Receives March Shine On Salute

On Wednesday, March 25, Maurice Schaefer of Sterling was honored with a Shine On Salute by Ron Smith, owner of Shine On Automotive. Smith, a United States Navy veteran, presented Schaefer with a metal United States flag engraved with the U.S. Army emblem and spoke about the profound honor of recognizing a World War II veteran who has given so much to his country.

Maurice celebrated his 100th birthday on Friday, March 20, with a community celebration held at Pioneer Park the following day. His story of service began on his 18th birthday, when he received his draft notice. He was assigned to the 98th Infantry Division of the United States Army and trained on the beaches of Hawaii in preparation for a planned invasion of Japan. Soldiers were told that as many as 90% of those landing on Japanese shores might not survive.

In the early morning hours of September 27, 1945—just twenty‑one days after the atomic bomb was dropped on Nagasaki and three weeks after Japan’s surrender—Maurice’s troop ship attempted a beach landing. The landing craft struck a sandbar roughly 100 feet from shore. In the dark, in the rain, and unable to swim, Maurice stepped into water up to his chin and made his way to land in full battle gear. He found no resistance from the Japanese people, only the quiet aftermath of a war that had finally ended.

Following the landing, Maurice was transferred to supply work and later served with the Army Corps of Topographical Engineers in Tokyo for the remainder of his two‑year tour. True to his character, he learned enough Japanese to speak kindly with children and older women, building small moments of connection during a time of rebuilding. He was honorably discharged at the rank of staff sergeant.

After returning home, Maurice worked on his family farm in the Sterling area. Among the belongings he brought back from Japan was a piece of silk he had purchased for the woman he had not yet met — material he hoped she would one day wear on their wedding day. Today, Maurice resides at Devonshire Acres in Sterling, where he is known for his warm smile and his pride in having served his country.

Maurice was surrounded by many family members as he received the Shine On Salute from Shine On Automotive and 97.5 BOB FM.

Lindsey Bruntz of 97.5 BOB FM also helped present a Quilt of Valor, lovingly crafted by the Sew Caring Angels of Holyoke. The Quilt of Valor Foundation’s mission is to wrap service members and veterans touched by war in a quilt that offers comfort, healing, and gratitude. Surrounded by family, Maurice’s children gently draped the handmade quilt around his shoulders — a quiet, powerful gesture of love and honor for his service.

Congratulations to Staff Sergeant Maurice Schaefer, this month’s Shine On Salute honoree.

Honoring Veterans and How to Nominate

Shine On Automotive and 97.5 BOB FM are honored to celebrate the veterans, heroes, and patriots who strengthen our community. The Shine On Salute recognizes one veteran each month for their service and sacrifice. To nominate a veteran, visit medialogicradio.com and submit their information under the Contests and Events tab.

For local auto glass replacement and repair, window tinting, or auto detailing, contact Ron at Shine On Automotive at 970‑580‑4345 or visit 429 North 3rd Street in Sterling. The Shine On Salute is proudly sponsored by Shine On Automotive and 97.5 BOB FM.