Larry Stevens was born in Alhambra on July 10, 1924. He was enrolled in the first Kindergarten class at Marguerita School and attended Alhambra High School, where he graduated in 1943 in the midst of a world at war.
Before graduation, Larry enlisted in the Army Air Corps. Serving as a B-17 Tail gunner, he flew 35 missions from Great Britain over Nazi occupied Europe. On D-Day, he flew over the Normandy battlefield and later as part of Operation Frantic, he flew as far as Soviet Ukraine. In addition to the Distinguished Service Medal, he would receive the prestigious French Légion d’Honneur medal.
After the war Larry, worked for his father’s lathe and plaster business where he helped build many private and public buildings in Alhambra and surrounding cities. In the early 50s, Larry joined the Alhambra Fire Department, serving as a fire fighter and paramedic for 31 years, retiring as a Captain.
In retirement, Larry served as a guest speaker at service clubs and civic meetings, recalling his military service to attendees. He attended many Fire Department events, becoming a beloved part of our community. Larry passed away with his family at his side on October 26th 2025.
Few among us have served our city and our country as well as Larry Stevens.
