EUGENE HOLLAND, U.S. Army veteran awarded top honors for heroic military service, to be buried at Arlington National Cemetery

Through hard times and wars, Ret. Major Eugene Holland defied the odds in his military career and in life. Gene earned numerous medals for distinguished service during his 22 years in the U.S. Army, including five bronze stars for heroic service in a combat zone.

Despite segregation-era practices which made it difficult for minorities to rise into the officer ranks, Gene was a standout soldier whose courage and athletic ability enabled him to climb to the rank of Major. He also became an elite Army Ranger.

Gene was stationed in several "hot spots" during his military career, including occupied Germany, Korea and Vietnam.  A certified Sharpshooter/Marksmen, he volunteered for 17 missions as a helicopter gunner in Vietnam, risking his life by going in under fire to rescue injured soldiers from the battlefield.

Born in Pittsburgh, PA, Gene and his brother James were the sons of Bertha and Leon Craig (stepfather). He grew up working in the steel mills with his father until receiving his "greetings letter" or draft notice. He joined the U.S. Army soon after marrying his high school sweetheart.

During his early service years, Gene proved to be a remarkable soldier in combat as well as in the boxing ring, representing the U.S. Army in amateur Golden Gloves boxing competitions. In later years, he was an instructor at Wheaton College for student recruits in the Army ROTC, one of the most demanding leadership programs in the country.

Gene learned to play tennis during his military years and pursued a career as a professional instructor upon retiring from the Army. Just as he did in the military, Gene broke barriers to rise to the top of the coaching profession. He spent the following years teaching tennis, including at the Wheaton Sport Center. Gene's legacy impacted thousands of players around the country and in 1998 the U.S. Pro Tennis Registry named him "Tennis Professional of the Year."

Gene was the first in his family to attend college (University of Nebraska) and lived to be the oldest member of his family. A fighter to the end, he passed away peacefully in his sleep surrounded by his children. Despite his illustrious military career and accomplishments as a beloved mentor, leader and coach, Gene always said his children were his first priority. Deeply patriotic, he attributed his military dedication to protecting their future.

Gene is survived by his children, Cheryl, Pat, Carol, Sharon and Steve; and grandchildren, Ashleigh and Cory.

A streaming memorial service is planned for January 23, 2021 at 5:00 pm CT. Family and friends may watch the livestream of the service here: Eugene Holland service . Because of his exemplary military service, Gene will be buried with honors at Arlington National Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Gene's name to the Chicago-based Alzheimer's Association, a leading voluntary health organization in Alzheimer's care, support and research. Contact the Association at 800-272-3900 or visit online at https://www.alz.org .

A video has been created by the Holland family which can be viewed here: https://vimeo.com/361697142