CPL Norbert H. Kowalski

On January 2, 1945, the Screaming Eagles of the 501st Parachute Infantry Regiment assembled before dawn. They moved forward to an assembly area in a part of the Bois Jacques, just south of the railroad tracks. The regiment prepared for an attack to the southeast, but the assault was delayed at 0930 hours. While the paratroopers remained in the forest that day, they were subjected to heavy enemy shelling and sniper fire that caused several casualties, including CPL Norbert H. Kowalski.

Four days after sustaining wounds during the battle in the Bois Jacques, Corporal Kowalski succumbed to and died from his injuries on January 6th, 1945.

Another Screaming Eagle soared to the ultimate height. 🦅

Born in Two Rivers, Manitowoc County, Wisconsin, on May 2, 1922, Norbert Kowalski died at the age of 22. He left behind his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Theophil Kowalski, two brothers, a stepbrother, and three sisters.

CPL Kowalski was first buried in the Temporary American Military Cemetery, Grand Failly, France, at Plot D, Row 12, Grave 277. He rests eternally in the American War Cemetery in Luxembourg, at Plot H, Row 7, Grave 1.

He was posthumously awarded a Purple Heart Medal.

Lest we forget! 🇺🇸

The sources used for this article are known to the author and available on request.